As museums begin selling NFTs of their works, one question looms large: do the laws governing copyright protection cover these digital reproductions? The related legislation is convoluted and lacks international coherence. Observers will readily conclude that these museums are selling high-priced counterparts of a low-value collector memento, or even a fractional stake in the original piece. Museums preserve cultural memoirs and believe that long-term value supersedes short-term gain. However, whether we like it or not, our history is being shaped by artefacts in combination with the opinions of the masses. 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
