Animal trials from the 16th century may have seemed like a backward practice, but they tell us a lot about how non-human consciousness was understood at the time. Through the story of Barthélemy de Chasseneuz, who defended a group of rats accused of eating a crop in Burgundy, we can learn that animals were thought to have some degree of autonomy, and were even given legal representation. In modern times, organisations like the Nonhuman Rights Project are pushing for greater legal recognition of non-human animals, and while the legal system remains slow to embrace change, we have learn that we shouldn’t underestimate the intelligence of animals. 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
