This article explores why we tend to be less thorough and less analytical when it comes to our most important decisions. We often trust prestigious figures and assume that a system works well until we have to deal with it ourselves. But this can be a mistake, as we should be taking more responsibility for our own decisions. One potential solution is to pair people with incentivised expert advisors in order to help us make better decisions. 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
