If I remember correctly, the old mobipocket reader let you assign different functions to different buttons - "Key-mapping" as well as auto-scroll.
That's one of the nice things about an OS that doesn't stifle the user just for the sake of "making everything work"!! lol
But I agree with Kris - I don't think Apple will allow it. They like swiping, it's worked so far, and there's no reason for them to change......
