Clive Thompson posits that “multiples”—ideas independently invented multiple times—come about because a period’s unique circumstances turn inventors toward a specific idea. Take the radio as an example. Although commonly attributed to Marconi and Tesla, at least three to four other people independently invented the same device. At the time, electric fields were increasingly interesting to scientists, so it was natural that several people wondered if they could transmit signals through these fields; in fact, it is surprising that there weren’t more people inventing radios. 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
