Smokers trying to give up could get a real shock if they fail. In WO
99/37357, Alvin Blum of Florida proposes a modified cigarette lighter that
provides 鈥渘egative reinforcement鈥. The lighter has a metal casing with two
insulated electrodes. The flame is produced in the usual way, but when the cap
is closed to extinguish it a voltage is briefly applied to the electrodes. So
however keen for a cigarette, the smoker associates the first puff with an
electric shock to the hand. The power can be supplied by the battery circuit
that lights the flame.
More from New Scientist
Explore the latest news, articles and features
Technology
Test moderators use AI-generated writing to judge literacy standards
News
Technology
We should decide how AI shapes the future, not tech firms
Comment
Technology
Quantum voting could make elections more secure
News
Technology
DeepMind AI gives an extra day of warning ahead of deadly cyclones
News
Popular articles
Trending New Scientist articles