Despite the displacement of unskilled workers, new technologies often result in a net positive for the workforce. Using Sweden as a case-study, while there were some workers that ended up jobless during the electrification of Sweden, researchers discovered that most strikes held by workers were for wage hikes by skilled workers. This suggests that electricity adoption in Sweden emboldened skilled workers to fight for benefits, as employers couldn’t replace them easily despite the influx of unemployed unskilled workers. 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
