Humans are surprisingly bad at predicting aggressive interactions between humans, dogs and monkeys. This new study by the DogStudies research group at the Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology, revealed that while we are better than chance at assessing social interactions, we struggle to identify aggressive behavior in both dogs and humans. One possible explanation for this is that we may be biased to assume good intentions from these species, so we interpret their actions as playful. 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
Merv
June 1, 2023
