There was a time when finding movies to watch would take hours. We look back to this era with fondness – visiting stores, browsing through aisles, discovering titles that excite us to bring home. Nowadays, entertainment is delivered to us with just a few clicks. Algorithms that know our preferences, platforms where we can make purchases in minutes. It’s easy to get lost in automation; this article is a reminder to, after the pandemic, put your smartphone down, visit bookstores, and stumble upon hidden arts and literary treasures.
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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
