When people talk of past events in the present tense, it’s called speaking in the historical present. While it can help make scenes feel more vivid, James Somers argues that its prevalence makes it more challenging to discuss events in the recent past. He points to the New York Times’ “Daily” podcast as an example; it’s genuinely difficult to parse if they’re talking about the past or the present because the host insists on using the historical present. 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
