Luigi Russolo’s intonarumori (lever-operated sound machines) and his alignment with the Futurist movement in 20th century Italy made his music the perfect backdrop for the growing fascist movement of the time. The shrieks, sobs, screams, and explosions (among other battle noises) produced by the intonarumori fit the futurist fetishisation of violence in creating art divorced from imitation and revitalising society. The Futurists’ manifesto aligned quite well with the Italian fascist goal of reinvigorating society through violent acts, so many Futurists were drawn to it and participated in fascist art shows. 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
