Deep Dive
Why do some U.S. highway signs use humor to convey safety messages?
Humorous highway signs make a bigger impact by capturing attention and creating an emotional reaction, similar to memorable Super Bowl ads. Studies show that entertaining messages are more likely to be retained and influence behavior.
How are the jokes for humorous highway signs created?
In Ohio, a writer's room meets four times a year to brainstorm ideas. They debate and select jokes that fit on the sign, are not offensive, and make everyone in the room laugh. They also ensure representation from different generations to ensure broad appeal.
What are the main sources of inspiration for humorous highway signs?
Holidays, local references, and pop culture are common inspirations. States often borrow ideas from each other and update them with local context, making the jokes more relatable to drivers.
Why did Jane Fonda create workout tapes in the 1980s?
Fonda created the workout tapes to fund her political action committee, the Campaign for Economic Democracy, which aimed to support progressive causes and candidates in California. The tapes were wildly successful, selling over 17 million copies and significantly contributing to the CED's efforts.
What impact did the Jane Fonda workout tapes have on California politics?
The workout tapes funded the CED, which successfully pushed for progressive causes like solar power, labor rights, and rent control in Santa Monica. Rent control laws, in particular, have had a lasting impact on the city.
Why did Alfred Nobel establish the Nobel Prizes?
After mistakenly reading his own obituary, which condemned him as the 'merchant of death' for inventing dynamite, Nobel decided to redirect his fortune toward promoting peace and other positive causes. This led to the creation of the Nobel Prizes, including the prestigious Peace Prize.
What is the significance of the Greek foot in art history?
The Greek foot, where the big toe is shorter than the second toe, was considered the ideal form of the human foot by ancient Greeks. This aesthetic standard persisted in Western art for over 2,500 years, influencing sculptures and paintings from the Greeks to the Renaissance.
How common is the Greek foot worldwide?
The Greek foot is relatively rare, found in only about 5% of the global population. However, it is more common in certain populations, such as the Ndoma in Nigeria and people with Ainu ancestry in Japan.
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