Getting a new TV series to air is expensive, so for decades, CBS aired its failed pilots on its Summer Playhouse anthology series to recoup their losses and test the waters. Viewers could call one of two numbers to give their opinion on the show. But this presented a problem: it was mostly people who liked what they saw that called the pay number, so the reviews were disproportionately positive, making the organisers doubt their decision-making process. 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
