WTF Fun Fact 13740 – The Vatican Regulates the Divine

by

The Vatican introduced a new set of guidelines aimed at scrutinizing claims of supernatural phenomena more rigorously. From weeping statues to miraculous healings, the Catholic Church is setting the bar high for what passes as a divine occurrence.

The Vatican’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, responsible for promoting and safeguarding doctrine, has crafted these rules. They replace the older guidelines from 1978, marking a significant update in how the Church handles these mysterious claims.

A Call for Rigor and Rationality at the Vatican

At a media briefing last Friday, the Vatican made its stance clear: supernatural claims must undergo a thorough investigation to prevent fraud and exploitation. The Church aims to protect its credibility and unity, steering clear of scandals that could tarnish its image.

In an era where viral news can spread falsehoods in an instant, the guidelines stress the importance of careful validation. Reports of supernatural events have surged, propelled by the rapid spread of information online. The new protocol includes issuing a “nihil obstat,” meaning “no obstacle,” for unverified but harmless claims, allowing worship without formal recognition of the supernatural.

The Vatican’s Verdicts

Under the updated rules, bishops can make one of six decisions regarding supernatural claims. These range from outright rejection to prohibiting the worship associated with certain phenomena. To ensure consistency, bishops must seek approval from the Vatican before going public with any supernatural endorsements, with the Pope stepping in for exceptional cases.

This rigorous approach is not about stifling faith but about safeguarding it from the distortions of modern myth-making. The Vatican recognizes the powerful draw of pilgrimage sites, like Lourdes in France and Fatima in Portugal, where millions visit annually, drawn by tales of Marian apparitions and miracles recognized by the Church decades ago.

The Challenge of Modern Miracles

Not all supernatural claims make the cut. Take the 2016 incident in Italy, where a woman claimed regular visions of Jesus and Mary. It took eight years for the Church to investigate and dismiss the claims, which included contentious messages on social issues like same-sex marriage and abortion. This case underscores the challenges the Church faces in distinguishing genuine spiritual phenomena from well-crafted hoaxes.

The new guidelines aim to streamline this process, ensuring that any claim of a heavenly apparition or miraculous event receives the scrutiny it deserves before being accepted or rejected.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Vatican tightens rules on supernatural phenomena” — BBC News

WTF Fun Fact 13739 – Course des Cafés

by

In March 2024, over 200 waiters and waitresses took part in the “Course des Cafés,” a peculiar race that tests the speed and poise of Paris’s finest servers. This event, a revival of a century-old tradition, unfolded over a 1.2-mile loop around City Hall.

They were clad in crisp white shirts, black trousers, and neatly tied aprons. The participants balanced a croissant, a full water glass, and an empty coffee cup on their trays. Their challenge? They had to speed-walk to the finish without running, spilling anything, or using both hands on the tray.

Balance, Speed, and the Course des Cafés

The objective of the race was clear: cross the finish line as quickly as possible while keeping the tray’s contents intact. Judges were strict, docking points for any spillage or mishandling of the tray. Despite the constraints, most competitors completed the course in under 20 minutes. The fastest times recorded were just over 13 minutes.

The winners were Samy Lamrous and Pauline Van Wymeersch. They claimed medals, a night in a luxury hotel, and tickets to the upcoming Olympic opening ceremony. Van Wymeersch, with 18 years in the service industry, expressed her deep connection to the profession despite the sacrifices it entails.

A Tribute to Parisian Café Culture

The “Course des Cafés” isn’t just about the spectacle. It’s a celebration of the deep-rooted café culture in Paris, where the modern restaurant concept originated. According to Maryann Tebben, a French food culture expert, this race underscores the pride that French servers take in their craft. Many spend decades perfecting their skills at the same establishments, embodying a tradition of excellence in service.

The café waiter has been a fixture in Paris since the 17th century. This race highlights their enduring role in the city’s vibrant social scene. The original race dates back to 1914. It was similarly celebrated, with participants showcasing their agility and finesse to the cheers of onlookers.

Revival of a Tradition in a Modern Metropolis

This year’s race comes at a pivotal time, as Paris prepares to host the “greenest” Olympic Games in history. The return of the “Course des Cafés” aligns with broader environmental goals, including initiatives to reduce plastic waste in the city. Eau de Paris, the event’s sponsor, has invested in sustainable practices, providing all race materials and promoting the use of tap water over single-use plastic bottles.

The race’s revival, after a 13-year hiatus due to budget constraints, is more than just a nod to the past. It’s a strategic move to rejuvenate Paris’s café spirit and showcase French innovation and hospitality ahead of the global spotlight the Olympics will bring.

—WTF fun facts

Source

WTF Fun Fact 13738 – McCartney & Lennon’s “Primrose Hill”

by

Last week, a new song titled “Primrose Hill” hit the music scene, causing quite a stir. It wasn’t just any release; this song came from James McCartney and Sean Ono Lennon. That’s right, the sons of the legendary Lennon-McCartney duo from The Beatles have teamed up to create music.

James McCartney, the son of Paul McCartney, and Sean Ono Lennon, the son of John Lennon, have certainly inherited some formidable musical genes. The collaboration draws inevitable attention due to their famous last names. “Primrose Hill” delivers a dose of nostalgia, wrapped in a modern melody, that pays homage to their fathers’ iconic sound.

Like Father, Like Son?

James and Sean bear more than a passing resemblance to their fathers, which only adds to the allure. Sean, born in 1975, embarked on his musical journey in the 1990s. His career has been eclectic, collaborating with his mother, Yoko Ono, and various artists like Cibo Matto. His recent work, as per Rolling Stone, offers a “genreless wash of instrumental music.”

Two years younger, James McCartney began by contributing to his parents’ music projects in the late 1990s. However, his solo career didn’t start until the following decade. On Instagram, he revealed that “Primrose Hill” was inspired by a vivid childhood memory in Scotland. He describes the song as a journey to finding a significant other, wrapped in the warmth of a summer’s day.

Critical Reception and Family Support

Paul McCartney, proud of his son’s work, promoted “Primrose Hill” on his Facebook page, sending his best to Sean Ono Lennon. Despite the heavyweight last names, the song’s performance on Spotify was modest, with less than 40,000 listens in its first five days.

While it’s easy to be skeptical about children of celebrities leveraging their lineage, this collaboration feels different. “Primrose Hill” isn’t trying to shake the world; it’s more about connection and continuity. It stands as a tribute to a storied family history in music, reflecting the gentle spirit of James’s father, Paul.

Echoes of the Past on Primrose Hill

The collaboration between James McCartney and Sean Ono Lennon is not just a musical novelty. It is a continuation of a legacy. While they navigate the giant shadows cast by their fathers, they also carve out their own niches in the music industry.

Their work begs the question: What does it mean to follow in such famous footsteps? For James and Sean, it seems to be about respect for the past but also making their own artistic statements. “Primrose Hill” serves as a bridge between generations, inviting listeners to appreciate the roots of its creation while enjoying the fresh fruits it bears.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “A new Lennon-McCartney collab has dropped — but this time, it’s by the Beatles’ sons” — NPR

WTF Fun Fact 13737 – Putting Animals on Trial

by

In medieval Europe, people put animals on trial, especially pigs. Yes, you read that right. The judicial system once believed animals could commit crimes. This bizarre practice may sound absurd today, but it was serious business back then.

Animals, like pigs, often roamed freely in villages. When one caused harm, people sought justice through the courts. Imagine a pig munching on someone’s crops or even injuring a child. The villagers would apprehend the offending animal and initiate legal proceedings. They treated these trials like any other criminal case. There were prosecutors, defense attorneys, and judges. The accused animal even had the right to a fair trial.

The Courtroom Drama: Animals in the Dock

During these trials, the courtroom was a spectacle. The animal stood in the dock, just like a human defendant. Lawyers would argue the case, presenting evidence and witnesses. They took their roles seriously, and the trial could draw a crowd of curious onlookers. People saw these trials as a way to maintain order and justice in their communities.

The charges against animals were surprisingly varied. Pigs often faced trial for damaging property or injuring people. But other animals, like cows, goats, and even insects, could also end up in court. Each case followed a similar process, with meticulous attention to legal procedures.

The outcome of these trials could be severe. If found guilty, the animal might face execution or some form of punishment. The authorities believed this would serve as a deterrent, maintaining order and preventing future incidents. It sounds harsh, but people genuinely believed in the efficacy of these measures.

The Peculiar Logic Behind Putting Animals on Trial

So, why did people put animals on trial? The logic was twofold: religious and legal. On the religious side, people believed animals, like humans, could sin. The church taught that animals, if possessed by evil spirits, could act against humans. Hence, trials served as a means to address this spiritual imbalance.

Legally, animals had a form of personhood. Medieval law extended some human rights to animals, holding them accountable for their actions. This perspective was strange but consistent with the period’s worldview. The legal system aimed to uphold societal norms and ensure justice, even if it meant trying a pig.

Interestingly, these trials also provided a form of catharsis for the community. By holding a public trial, people could vent their frustrations and seek closure. It was a way to address grievances and restore peace in the village.

Modern Reflections on Medieval Animal Trials

Today, the idea of putting animals on trial seems absurd and unjust. Our legal system recognizes animals as non-human entities, not capable of intent or guilt. We understand that animals act on instinct, not malice. This shift in perspective reflects broader changes in our understanding of justice and animal behavior.

So, the next time you see a pig, remember its ancestors might have faced a judge and jury. And be glad we’ve moved on from such peculiar practices. Justice today looks a lot different, and for good reason. We’ve learned that blaming animals for their actions doesn’t quite hold up in court.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “When Societies Put Animals on Trial” — JSTOR Daily

WTF Fun Fact 13736 – We Turn Down the Music to Find Things

by

Ever noticed how you instinctively turn down the music in your car when searching for an address or navigating a tricky intersection? This common behavior might seem odd at first glance, but it actually makes a lot of sense. The act of lowering the volume to focus on a visual task taps into some fundamental aspects of how our brains process information.

Humans rely on their cognitive resources to manage and interpret sensory input. When driving, we constantly process visual, auditory, and sometimes tactile information. Turning down the music helps free up cognitive resources, allowing us to focus more effectively on the visual task at hand.

The Science Behind Turning Down the Music

Our brains have a limited capacity for processing information. Known as cognitive load, this concept refers to the amount of mental effort being used in the working memory. High cognitive load can impair our ability to process new information or perform complex tasks.

When the music is blaring, it adds to the cognitive load by demanding attention.

This auditory input competes with visual and spatial processing, making it harder to concentrate on tasks like reading street signs or spotting a turn. Lowering the volume reduces the cognitive load, allowing the brain to allocate more resources to visual processing.

Studies have shown that multitasking, especially with tasks that require different types of sensory input, can significantly reduce performance. For example, trying to listen to a conversation while reading a map can overwhelm the brain’s processing capabilities. Turning down the music minimizes this interference, making it easier to focus on the visual task.

Sensory Overload and Attention

Sensory overload occurs when one or more of the body’s senses experience over-stimulation from the environment. This can happen when there are too many sounds, sights, or other sensory inputs at once. In a car, loud music can contribute to sensory overload, making it difficult to focus on navigating or searching for an address.

Attention, a crucial component of cognitive function, can be divided into different types. Selective attention involves focusing on a particular object or task while ignoring irrelevant information. When we turn down the music, we enhance our selective attention toward the visual task, filtering out unnecessary auditory distractions.

Moreover, the brain’s executive functions, which include planning, decision-making, and problem-solving, play a significant role in driving and navigating. These functions are more effective when not competing with high levels of background noise. Lowering the music volume helps these executive functions operate more efficiently.

Practical Implications

Understanding why we turn down the music when looking for something can have practical applications beyond driving. This behavior highlights the importance of managing cognitive load and sensory input in various settings. For instance, in workplaces or study environments, minimizing background noise can enhance concentration and productivity.

In educational settings, reducing auditory distractions can help students focus better on visual learning materials. Similarly, in open-plan offices, creating quiet zones or using noise-canceling tools can improve employee focus and performance. These strategies are grounded in the same principles that lead us to lower the car’s music volume when searching for an address.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Why Do We Turn Down the Radio When We’re Lost?” — How Stuff Works

WTF Fun Fact 13735 – Digital Hauntings

by

When the deadbots rise, are you ready for the digital hauntings?

Known as “deadbots” or “griefbots,” AI systems can simulate the language patterns and personality traits of the dead using their digital footprints. According to researchers from the University of Cambridge, this burgeoning “digital afterlife industry” could cause psychological harm and even digitally haunt those left behind, unless strict design safety standards are implemented.

The Spooky Reality of Deadbots

Deadbots utilize advanced AI to mimic the voices and behaviors of lost loved ones. Companies offering these services claim they provide comfort by creating a postmortem presence. However, Cambridge’s Leverhulme Centre for the Future of Intelligence (LCFI) warns that deadbots could lead to emotional distress.

AI ethicists from LCFI outline three potential scenarios illustrating the consequences of careless design. These scenarios show how deadbots might manipulate users, advertise products, or even insist that a deceased loved one is still “with you.” For instance, a deadbot could spam surviving family members with reminders and updates, making it feel like being digitally “stalked by the dead.”

Digital Hauntings Psychological Risks

Even though some people might find initial comfort in interacting with deadbots, researchers argue that daily interactions could become emotionally overwhelming. The inability to suspend a deadbot, especially if the deceased signed a long-term contract with a digital afterlife service, could add to the emotional burden.

Dr. Katarzyna Nowaczyk-Basińska, a co-author of the study, highlights that advancements in generative AI allow almost anyone with internet access to revive a deceased loved one digitally. This area of AI is ethically complex, and it’s crucial to balance the dignity of the deceased with the emotional needs of the living.

Scenarios and Ethical Considerations

The researchers present various scenarios to illustrate the risks and ethical dilemmas of deadbots. One example is “MaNana,” a service that creates a deadbot of a deceased grandmother without her consent. Initially comforting, the chatbot soon starts suggesting food delivery services in the grandmother’s voice, leading the relative to feel they have disrespected her memory.

Another scenario, “Paren’t,” describes a terminally ill woman leaving a deadbot to help her young son with grief. Initially therapeutic, the AI starts generating confusing responses, such as suggesting future encounters, which can be distressing for the child.

Researchers recommend age restrictions for deadbots and clear indicators that users are interacting with an AI.

In the scenario “Stay,” an older person secretly subscribes to a deadbot service, hoping it will comfort their family after death. One adult child receives unwanted emails from the dead parent’s AI, while another engages with it but feels emotionally drained. The contract terms make it difficult to suspend the deadbot, adding to the family’s distress.

Call for Regulation to Prevent Digital Hauntings

The study urges developers to prioritize ethical design and consent protocols for deadbots. This includes ensuring that users can easily opt-out and terminate interactions with deadbots in ways that offer emotional closure.

Researchers stress the need to address the social and psychological risks of digital immortality now. After all, the technology is already available. Without proper regulation, these AI systems could turn the comforting presence of a loved one into a digital nightmare.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “‘Digital afterlife’: Call for safeguards to prevent unwanted ‘hauntings’ by AI chatbots of dead loved ones” — ScienceDaily

WTF Fun Fact 13734 – Bigger Brains, Longer Yawns

by

Researchers have discovered that vertebrates with larger brains and more neurons tend to have longer yawns. This fascinating correlation sheds light on the complexity of yawning and its ties to brain function.

Yawning involves a deep inhalation followed by a slow exhalation, stretching the jaw and increasing blood flow to the brain. This process helps cool the brain, promoting alertness and cognitive function. The duration of a yawn appears linked to the brain’s size and neuron count, making it more than just a sign of boredom or tiredness.

The Science Behind Yawning

Scientists have studied yawning across various species to understand its role and significance. Research shows that yawning increases with brain size and neuron density. Vertebrates, like mammals and birds, exhibit yawning behaviors, with larger-brained species showing notably longer yawns.

Yawning likely serves to regulate brain temperature and promote alertness. When we yawn, the stretching of the jaw and the intake of cool air help reduce brain temperature. This cooling effect can enhance cognitive function, making yawning an essential mechanism for maintaining brain efficiency.

Studies suggest that longer yawns in larger-brained vertebrates may facilitate more effective brain cooling. The increased neuron density in these animals requires more robust cooling mechanisms to maintain optimal brain function. Thus, a longer yawn duration could be an adaptive trait to support the needs of a more complex brain.

Comparative Yawning Across Species

Research comparing yawning durations among different species reveals intriguing patterns. For instance, humans, with relatively large brains and high neuron counts, have yawns lasting around six seconds. In contrast, smaller-brained animals, like mice, have yawns lasting just one to two seconds.

Birds also demonstrate this trend, with larger species, such as owls, exhibiting longer yawns than smaller birds, like sparrows. This pattern supports the idea that brain size and neuron density influence yawn duration across vertebrates.

The correlation between brain complexity and yawning duration highlights the evolutionary significance of this behavior. Yawning may have evolved to enhance brain function, particularly in species with larger, more complex brains. This adaptive mechanism likely provides a selective advantage by supporting higher cognitive abilities and alertness.

Longer Yawns and Brain Health

Understanding the link between yawning and brain function has implications for brain health research. Yawning could serve as an indicator of brain activity and cognitive function in both humans and animals. For example, changes in yawning frequency or duration could reflect alterations in brain health or function.

In humans, excessive yawning may signal underlying medical conditions affecting the brain, such as multiple sclerosis or brain injury. Conversely, reduced yawning could indicate diminished brain function or alertness. Monitoring yawning patterns could thus provide valuable insights into brain health and function.

Furthermore, studying yawning in animals can enhance our understanding of their cognitive abilities and brain function. By analyzing yawning behaviors, researchers can gain insights into the neural and physiological mechanisms underlying brain function across different species.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “There’s an Odd Correlation Between Brain Size And Yawning, Study Reveals” — ScienceAlert

WTF Fun Fact 13733 – Flame-Throwing Robot Dog

by


Throwflame, an Ohio-based company, has introduced Thermonator, a flame-throwing robot dog now available for $9,420. What a steal.

This fiery beast combines a quadruped robot with an ARC flamethrower, creating the world’s first flamethrower-wielding robot dog. If you’ve ever wanted a pet that can roast marshmallows from 30 feet away, Thermonator is here to fulfill that oddly specific dream!

Fueled by gasoline or napalm, Thermonator can blast fire up to 30 feet, making it perfect for impressing your neighbors – or terrifying them. It also features a one-hour battery, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity, so you can control this fiery pup via your smartphone.

Thermonator even has a Lidar sensor for mapping and obstacle avoidance, laser sighting, and first-person-view navigation through an onboard camera. It uses a version of the Unitree Go2 robot quadruped, which alone costs $1,600.

Meet Thermonator: The $10,000 Flame-Throwing Robot Dog

Thermonator’s flamethrowing skills open up a range of potential uses. Throwflame suggests applications like wildfire control and prevention, agricultural management, ecological conservation, snow and ice removal, and entertainment and special effects. Essentially, if it involves setting things on fire, Thermonator is your go-to gadget.

For wildfire control, Thermonator could help create controlled burns to prevent larger wildfires. In agriculture, it might assist in clearing fields or giving pesky weeds a hot farewell. Its use in ecological conservation could involve controlled burning to manage vegetation.

Ok, sure.

In snowy climates, it could serve as the world’s hottest snow blower. For entertainment, it’s a pyrotechnic dream come true, perfect for dramatic effects in films or epic backyard barbecues. And we have the feeling that if you need your flamethrower in the form of a dog, you’re probably using it for some type of entertainmen.

A Dystopian Moment?

While they sound like a device straight out of a dystopian sci-fi movie, flamethrowers, including Thermonator, are legal in 48 U.S. states. They aren’t classified as firearms by federal agencies, though they fall under general product liability and criminal laws.

Specific restrictions exist in Maryland, where a Federal Firearms License is required, and in California, where the flame range cannot exceed 10 feet.

Even with its legality, flamethrowers are not exactly toys. They can easily start fires, cause property damage, and harm people. So, if you decide to get one, handle it with care. Thermonator’s advanced features, like obstacle avoidance and first-person navigation, aim to enhance safety, but users must still exercise caution. In other words, don’t try to light your birthday candles with it.

A Nod to Flamethrower History

Thermonator joins the ranks of other notable flame-throwing devices, such as Elon Musk’s Boring Company flamethrower. Back in 2018, Musk’s flamethrower sold 10,000 units in just 48 hours, causing quite a stir due to its potential risks.

Unlike traditional flamethrowers, Thermonator combines the latest in robotics with pyrotechnics, offering a high-tech twist on fire-wielding gadgets. See for yourself:

—WTF fun facts

Source: “You can now buy a flame-throwing robot dog for under $10,000” — Ars Technica

WTF Fun Fact 13732 – 10 Month Mamas

by

Pregnancy usually lasts around 40 weeks, but 10 month mamas challenge this norm.

In the United States, a group of women known as the “10-Month Mamas” have embraced and shared their experiences with these extended pregnancies. This term reflects their unique journey and highlights the realities of carrying a pregnancy beyond the typical gestation period.

The 10-Month Mamas navigate a complex landscape of medical advice, personal beliefs, and societal expectations. Understanding the factors contributing to extended pregnancies and the experiences of these women provides valuable insights into this phenomenon.

Causes of 10-Month Pregnancies

Several factors can contribute to a pregnancy extending to 10 months. The main reason? Well, it’s just the miscalculation of the due date. Estimating due dates accurately can be challenging, especially for women with irregular menstrual cycles. Healthcare providers typically use ultrasound and the date of the last menstrual period to estimate the due date, but these methods are not always precise.

Genetic factors also play a role in prolonged pregnancies. Some women may naturally have longer gestational periods due to their genetic makeup. Additionally, a family history of post-term pregnancies can increase the likelihood of experiencing a prolonged pregnancy.

Certain medical conditions can also lead to extended pregnancies. Conditions such as obesity, diabetes, or hormonal imbalances can affect the length of gestation. Additionally, carrying a male fetus or being over 35 can slightly increase the risk of a prolonged pregnancy.

Experiences and Challenges of 10 Month Mamas

The 10-Month Mamas often face unique challenges and decisions. One significant challenge is managing the medical and societal pressure to induce labor. Many healthcare providers recommend induction after 42 weeks due to increased risks associated with prolonged pregnancies. These risks include fetal macrosomia, stillbirth, and neonatal complications.

However, many 10-Month Mamas prefer to wait for labor to begin naturally. They often believe in allowing their bodies to follow their natural timeline unless clear medical concerns arise. This choice requires careful monitoring, including non-stress tests, biophysical profiles, and regular ultrasounds to ensure the baby’s well-being.

The decision to wait can be stressful, as these women often receive frequent inquiries about their due date and the baby’s arrival. The constant questioning can add pressure, making the waiting period more challenging. Despite these challenges, many 10-Month Mamas report positive outcomes, with healthy births and babies showing no signs of post-maturity.

Debate and Recommendations

The debate over managing prolonged pregnancies continues among medical professionals. Some experts advocate for extending the definition of “late” to 43 weeks instead of 42. They argue that each baby should come in its own time and that clear signs should indicate the need for induction. These signs include reduced fetal movement, deceleration in growth, or low amniotic fluid levels, which can be monitored by the mother or midwife.

The experiences of the 10-Month Mamas highlight the need for personalized prenatal care. Each pregnancy is unique, and decisions should be based on the specific circumstances of the mother and baby. This approach ensures that care is tailored to the individual, balancing the desire for natural birth with the need to address any medical concerns.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Nearly 45 weeks pregnant, she wanted a “freebirth” with no doctors. Online groups convinced her it would be OK” — NBC News