“In physical space, Western children are almost comically sheltered. But in digital space, they’re entirely beyond our command; and increasingly, that’s where children spend most of their time.” This article makes the point that our parental hovering has blocked off outdoor kids-only space, so children find autonomy online away from adult supervision. ~ learn more
A great blog showcasing the bizarre trend of restaurants serving food in unconventional vessels, from gravy in a beer can to soup in a shoe. ~ learn more
Researchers at MIT have developed a new lipid nanoparticle that “significantly enhances the potency of mRNA vaccines,” making them 100 times more effective in mice and reducing dosage requirements. This could make vaccines cheaper and reduce liver toxicity. ~ learn more
Researchers have pinpointed the Epstein-Barr virus as a direct cause of lupus. “For the first time, we have a clear biological explanation of how Epstein-Barr virus can lead to lupus,” says Dr. William Robinson of Stanford Medicine. ~ learn more
“Consumers’ bedrooms have become the new changing rooms, and ‘haul culture’ has made excessive purchasing the norm.” Gen Zers and me are apparently guilty of buying multiple sizes with the intention of returning most. However, I have never bought clothes to take pics wearing them and then return them. At least, not yet. ~ learn more
Travis Kalanick argues, “Delivery app tipping isn’t about feedback mechanisms.. it’s a tool for maximizing price paid by consumers… eaters are economically irrational with tip.” This practice exploits human psychology to boost app revenues and gains a competitive edge. ~ learn more
The percentage of older US adults with dementia dropped from 11.6% in 2000 to 8.8% in 2012, which indicates a nearly 25% decrease. “If the rate of dementia in 2012 had been what it was in 2000, there would be well more than 1 million additional people with dementia.” ~ learn more
“The gap between what they know and what they think they know is widest.” A study reveals that those who oppose scientific consensus often have lower objective knowledge but higher subjective confidence. ~ learn more
“Across 50 years of data and 30,346 people, the folks who scored higher on the vocab test were a tiny bit less happy.” A deep dive into intelligence and happiness reveals a curious finding: being smarter doesn’t necessarily lead to a more joyful life. ~ learn more
“AI has given venture capital a new way to repeat an old mistake: kingmaking. The pattern from 2021 is back: a category becomes ‘obvious,’ a top-tier firm anoints its winner, and everyone else acts like the decision is final.” Jaya Gupta highlights the ongoing cycle in the startup world. ~ learn more