Some experts posit that the brain is Bayesian in nature. Bayes’ law is a mathematical law that describes the probability of an event happening after considering prior knowledge related to that event. The brain is said to be Bayesian because we update our beliefs when presented with new information. For example, when we see a dog snarling and barking at us, we believe that we’ll likely be attacked, but then believe this to be less true if we see another barking dog run up from behind us. 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
