Magical thinking is the mentality described by an “excessive optimism” and an unwillingness to cooperate to solve a problem. Understandably, this is a detrimental mentality to have when faced with major crises like climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic, and habitat destruction. So how do we deal with people who think like this? Louise Fabiani suggests to avoid presenting possible solutions in an optimistic manner, emphasising instead the importance of people’s involvement towards solving these crises. 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
