The Evolution of Mardi Gras Rituals
In this 'Wonks Gone Wild,' researchers say the hierarchical role-playing in Mardi Gras parades gave way to a free marketplace for beads, which included 'negotiated transactions.'
Browsing Tag
January-February 2010
18 posts
Studying Drunken Promiscuity at Mardi Gras
In this edition of 'Wonks Gone Wild,' researchers find that men overrated, and women underrated, the likelihood that they would participate in sexual activities with a new partner at Mardi Gras.
Unmasking Mardi Gras Deviants
In this edition of 'Wonks Gone Wild,' a researcher spends 500 hours at Mardi Gras celebrations to learn what makes revelers participate in deviant behavior.
The History of Mardi Gras Beadwhores
In this edition of 'Wonks Gone Wild,' one researcher finds an answer to the Mardi Gras question: How do I get someone to throw me some beads?
The Exonerator
Self-taught private investigator Jim McCloskey has helped free more than three dozen people who were imprisoned for crimes they didn't commit.
Why It’s ‘OK’ to Leave the Party for a Quick Smoke
College party-goers share their reasons puffing on the patio ... and other odd studies highlighted in this month's Cocktail Napkin.
This Just In: More Research Needed
Only more and better data will settle a dispute about the possibility that environmental pollution can cause inheritable disease.
Question Time for Denialism
The BBC finds the right way to counter Holocaust deniers: You have the public question them.
After the Aftermath
Long after the benefit concerts are finished, the victims of hurricanes, earthquakes and tsunamis suffer severe emotional aftershocks. Is there a better way to respond to disaster?
The Revolution Will Be Mapped
GIS mapping technology is helping underprivileged communities get better services — from education and transportation to health care and law enforcement — by showing exactly what discrimination looks like.