Which of the following can be considered an effect of the invention of the printing press?

The invention of the printing press had a profound impact on society, fundamentally altering how information was disseminated and accessed. As books and other printed materials became more widely available and affordable, literacy rates increased significantly. This was because the printing press allowed for the mass production of texts, making books accessible to a larger segment of the population. As more people were able to read, there was a corresponding rise in the desire for education and knowledge, which contributed to higher literacy levels across different social classes.

Additionally, the spread of information promoted by the printing press played a crucial role in various movements, including the Renaissance and the Reformation, both of which encouraged learning and questioning of established authorities. This accessibility of knowledge is a direct link to the rise in literacy, positioning this answer as the most accurate reflection of the historical effects of the printing press. Higher literacy rates subsequently facilitated increased participation in cultural, religious, and political life, further transforming society.