Freakonomics Radio Highway Signs and Prison Labor
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Jan 6, 2025 Incarcerated individuals tackle various jobs, from growing crops to manufacturing highway signs, often earning mere pennies an hour. The discussion uncovers the ethics of prison labor, tracing its evolution and economic implications. Dive into the nuanced world of highway sign production while learning about the challenges prisoners face in low-wage jobs. Experience the complex intersection of labor, profit, and the personal struggles of inmates, revealing both the exploitation and resilience within the system.
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Early Road Sign Variety
- Early road signs in America were diverse and inconsistent, causing confusion for interstate travelers.
- Some stop signs were shaped like coffins, while others featured skull and crossbones.
MUTCD Standardization
- The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) standardizes traffic signs across the U.S.
- This manual ensures consistency for drivers and covers over 500 signs, markings, and signals.
Mixed-Case Lettering
- Highway signs use mixed-case letters for better readability at high speeds.
- Drivers recognize word shapes before individual letters, aiding quick comprehension.