Before World War II, Americans had no particular love nor respect for mathematics because mathematicians weren’t focused on “practical” endeavours. But instead of asserting its usefulness in science like his peers, Cassius Jackson Keyser went the opposite direction. He argued that mathematics was a humanist pursuit, integral to the development of civilisation in man. For Keyser, mathematics instilled civilised ideals within people and should be pursued to better oneself and our society. 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
