One’s experience at a Georgian inn could have (and likely would have) varied wildly, half due to one’s perceived status and half seemingly for no reason other than the luck and the whims of its staff. For example, food and drink often had their prices obscured, and you’d only find out how much you owe when the bill came. That is, if you’re even allowed in; if you arrived on foot, expect to be turned away even if the inn were dead empty. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here