diff --git a/traitsui/editors/text_editor.py b/traitsui/editors/text_editor.py
index e0d37ccc7..71980d784 100644
--- a/traitsui/editors/text_editor.py
+++ b/traitsui/editors/text_editor.py
@@ -78,7 +78,7 @@ class TextEditor(EditorFactory):
     view = AView
 
     #: In a read-only text editor, allow selection and copying of the text.
-    readonly_allow_selection = Bool(False)
+    readonly_allow_selection = Bool(True)
 
     #: Grayed-out placeholder text to be displayed when the editor is empty.
     placeholder = Str()