Heliocentrism — the idea that the Sun was the centre of the Universe, rather than the Earth — has a long, storied history, dating back to before Copernicus, to whom the idea is usually attributed. Despite Copernicus’ mathematical models and Galileo’s arguments for the heliocentric model, Tycho Brahe’s modified geocentric model prevailed for decades after Galileo’s death in 1642. This was no doubt partly because Galileo’s arguments weren’t hard evidence, and some of it was even compatible with Brahe’s model, so he couldn’t convince the great astronomers of his time. 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
