Simeon Stylites the Elder invented a whole new type of ascetic: the stylite, or pillar hermit. Ascetics were religious people who practised strict self-denial. Simeon was unparalleled in his zeal and asceticism, so much so that he was kicked out of a monastery for being too hard-core about it. In post-monastic life, he attracted crowds, which was the exact opposite of what he wanted. To escape them, he climbed on top of a pillar, where he lived, ate, and died after 37 years. 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
