We know that lead exposure can be dangerous. We know that it can cause brain damage. But what levels are dangerous. How does that damage express itself? And how do you separate the effects of lead poisoning from a whole host of other potentially dangerous, damaging factors? Last week, Mother Jones had a well-done article about research that is drawing connections between leaded gasoline and the crime wave of the mid 20th century. That's a hypothesis. It's a hypothesis with a lot of correlational evidence. But it's not proof. I recommend reading public health researcher Scott Firestone's excellent article that delves into the details of the studies from the Mother Jones story. It's a great look at the lines between public health as a science and public health as activism and it helps shine some light on why seemingly airtight cases aren't always immediately acted upon.
Lead and violent crime — why a good hypothesis isn't proof
- COMMENTS
- crime
- follow ups
- gas
- lead
- News
- research
- Science
Senate confirms RFK Jr, also a completely preventable measles outbreak spreads in Texas
The United States Senate has confirmed noted vaccine denier RFK Jr as Secretary of Health and Human Services, endangering us all. Additionally, unvaccinated woo believers in Texas are spreading the… READ THE REST
The sound of the Titan Submersible imploding
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration operates a network of passive acoustic monitors—underwater mics—and it turns out they likely recorded audio of the Titan Submersible's deadly implosion on June 18,… READ THE REST
Fancy science journal caught publishing nonsense term "vegetative electron microscopy," doubles down
A completely made-up scientific term is making the rounds in academic journals, and instead of being "oops!" one major publisher is basically saying "this is fine!" As reported in Retraction… READ THE REST
Here's why I'm ditching Microsoft 365 for this Office license instead
TL;DR: I got fed up with my Microsoft 365 subscription, so I decided to grab this Microsoft Office 2024 lifetime license while it was discounted to $140. Check out what I thought!… READ THE REST
Here's how to get 'Friends'—or whatever you want—back on Netflix
TL;DR: This VPN router can unblock content on your streaming services without subscription fees. Get it for $149.97 (reg. $219). Your Netflix is a ghost town—especially since they removed Friends and The Office (major RIP). If you're still mourning… READ THE REST
Egg and gas prices probably aren't going down, but you can find better value at Sam's Club
TL;DR: Want your paycheck to stretch farther while grocery shopping? Find better value by joining Sam's Club with this 1-year membership that comes with Auto-Renew, now just $20 (reg. $50). You've seen… READ THE REST