The writing is off the wall
Researchers in Mexico have invented a new type of anti-graffiti paint
THE row over who will provide the anti-graffiti technology for Berlin's Holocaust memorial (see article) highlights a widespread and ancient problem. Even the Romans had to put up with slogans scratched on their fine new buildings by ungrateful locals. Ever since then, people have been struggling to deal with unofficial decorators who wish to express their opinions, or merely to catch the public eye.
This article appeared in the Science & technology section of the print edition under the headline “The writing is off the wall”
From the November 1st 2003 edition
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Elon Musk is causing problems for the Royal Society
His continued membership has led to a high-profile resignation
Deforestation is costing Brazilian farmers millions
Without trees to circulate moisture, the land is getting hotter and drier
Robots can learn new actions faster thanks to AI techniques
They could soon show their moves in settings from car factories to care homes
Scientists are learning why ultra-processed foods are bad for you
A mystery is finally being solved
Scientific publishers are producing more papers than ever
Concerns about some of their business models are building
The two types of human laugh
One is caused by tickling; the other by everything else