Questions and Answers
Why do drug dealers still live with their moms?
To save money and maintain support
What is the first trick to asking questions?
Determine if your question is a good one
Who coined the phrase 'conventional wisdom'?
John Kenneth Galbraith
What is Galbraith's view on truth and comfort?
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Who is Mitch Snyder?
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How many homeless Americans did Mitch say there were?
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How often do 45 homeless persons die according to Mitch?
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What is a brilliant tool for conventional wisdom?
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Who said, 'Listerine did not make mouthwash as much as it made halitosis'?
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What is Listerine?
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In seven years, how high did the company's revenue rise?
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What was the name of the economist from the New York Times who criticized George W. Bush?
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Who underreported crimes in the 1990s and why?
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What is one of the most profitable jobs in America?
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Who was Sudhir Venkatesh?
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What survey question did Venkatesh ask the Black Disciples?
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Who was the leader of the Chicago branch of the Black Disciples?
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What did the Black Disciples sell?
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Who was Booty?
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When was Venkatesh set free?
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What did the drug gang claim?
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Where did Levitt meet Venkatesh?
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What major corporation were the Black Disciples compared to?
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What is the goal of a foot soldier?
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What two jobs are less dangerous than dealing crack in Chicago?
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What product was crack compared to?
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When was crack invented?
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What are some slang names for crack?
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Who is known as the 'Johnny Appleseed of Crack'?
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What caused a major regression for black Americans in the 1980s?
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Which of the following groups/people did not alter conventional wisdom?
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Which of the following is not a 'glamor' profession mentioned in Chapter 3?
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Study Notes
Drug Dealers and Economic Realities
- Drug dealers often live with their mothers, illustrating economic challenges and the low wages in the drug trade.
- Crack dealing emerges as one of the most profitable jobs in America despite its societal consequences.
Conventional Wisdom
- John Kenneth Galbraith coined the term "conventional wisdom," emphasizing it as often aligned with convenience rather than truth.
- Advertising is highlighted as a powerful tool that shapes conventional wisdom, demonstrating how perceptions can be manipulated.
Homelessness Advocacy
- Mitch Snyder was a prominent advocate for the homeless during the 1980s, claiming there were around 3 million homeless Americans.
- Snyder pointed out that, statistically, 45 homeless individuals die every second, shedding light on the dire state of homelessness.
The Listerine Example
- Listerine was originally created in the 19th century as a surgical anesthetic and later marketed as a floor cleaner and treatment for gonorrhea.
- The company's revenue skyrocketed from $115,000 to over $8 million within seven years after marketing it as a mouthwash to combat halitosis.
Crime Reporting Issues
- Atlanta police underreported crimes in the 1990s to improve the city's image for the Olympics, highlighting issues of trust in law enforcement.
Sociological Insights
- Sudhir Venkatesh conducted a study on the Black Disciples, a Chicago gang, learning about their socio-economic challenges and perspectives on poverty.
- The gang, led by J.T., a college graduate, dealt crack and managed operations likened to a corporation such as McDonald's.
Crack Cocaine Impact
- Crack was birthed in the 1980s and compared to nylons, emphasizing its widespread impact and integration into culture.
- The rise of crack cocaine resulted in severe socioeconomic regression for Black Americans, with quadrupled homicide rates and dysfunctional family structures in affected communities.
Comparisons and Career Outcomes
- Among various occupations, crack dealing, timber cutting, and being a death-row inmate were identified as the three most dangerous jobs.
- Aspirations among foot soldiers in gangs often involved climbing ranks within their organizations.
Language and Culture Around Drugs
- Crack has various slang names, including "rock" and "kryptonite," reflecting its cultural penetration and lifestyle association.
- Oscar Danilo Blandon has been referred to as the "Johnny Appleseed of Crack," indicating his role in the drug trade's proliferation.
Insights on Conventional Wisdom Alterations
- Various groups such as women's rights advocates and the Listerine company have altered conventional wisdom, while crack dealers notably have not impacted mainstream beliefs in a positive way.
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Description
Explore the intersection of drug dealing, conventional wisdom, and homelessness advocacy. This quiz examines economic realities and societal perceptions throughout history, focusing on figures like Mitch Snyder and concepts like advertising's influence. Test your knowledge on these critical social themes and their impacts.