An amusing documentation of the “culture of dancing madness in post-terror Paris”. The Waltzmania phenomenon in 18th century France swept the newly-minted republic off its feet; it was seen as an involuntary dancing disease spread by touch, or even the sight of touch. Were an individual to see others waltzing, their “nervous sympathies” would be activated—that is to say, their senses and imagination would be ignited—and they would dance away without a care for their mental health, morals, or societal expectations. 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
