Apparently, narcissists are more likely to volunteer to help those affected by COVID-19; a study conducted by researchers from the University of Mississippi has found that those with the Dark Tetrad personality traits (narcissism, Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and sadism) seem to feel and react differently to the pandemic. The latter two personalities, which thrive in familiar social systems, experienced more discomfort as their world systems are upended, while sadists feast on the collective misery caused by the pandemic. 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
