Christopher Mims’ Arriving Today is a book that takes us through the life of a USB cable, starting from its production and ending at its delivery to the customer. Although Arriving Today explores this journey in modern times, it is quite similar in concept to Adam Smith’s Wealth of Nations, published in 1776. Both books focus on the hardships of the workers involved in production, especially the repetitive nature of their work. They both note that excessive repetition leaves workers with limited energy to think. 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
