[SMOKNAC]

PBS recently aired a documentary called "Smarter Brains", the premise being that each of the last two generations had a 25 point increase in average IQ on standardized tests, attributable in large part to interacting with computers, smart phones and other technological advances. So, people are smarter now?

In my day...

Irons didn't have a warning label saying "Do not iron clothes while wearing them." Especially underwear!

Toilet bowl cleaner didn't have a warning label saying "Do not drink from toilet." Do they think my dog reads labels?

The fuel tank cap didn't have a warning label saying "Do not use a lighted match or candle to check fuel level."

Chain saws didn't have a warning label saying "Do not stop chain with hands or genitals." Natural selection delayed...

Dremel rotary tools didn't have a warning label saying "Do not use to drill teeth." It hurts just thinking about it!

Hair dryers didn't have a warning label saying "Intended to dry hair on head only" and "Do not use while asleep."

Curling irons didn't have a warning label saying "Do not use on eyelashes." Ouch!

Air tight plastic storage boxes didn't have a warning label saying "Not for storage of animals or small children."

Electric letter openers didn't have a warning label saying "Sharp blades, safety goggles recommended."

A prescription from the vet for your dog didn't have a warning label saying "Use care when operating vehicles or machinery."

Frozen entrees didn't have a warning label saying "Product will be hot after heating."

A 'Superman' costume didn't have a warning label saying "Wearing this garment will NOT enable wearer to fly."

A sleep aid didn't have a warning label saying "WARNING: May cause drowsiness." One would hope...

A carton of eggs didn't have a warning label saying "Caution: this product may contain eggs."

A thermometer didn't have a warning label saying "If used rectally, do not then use orally."

Pepper spray didn't have a warning label saying "May cause irritation of the eyes." Isn't that the point?

Fireplace logs didn't have a warning label saying "WARNING: Risk of fire." Isn't fire what you wanted in the fireplace?

Sunshields for your windshield didn't have a warning label saying "Do not drive with sunshield in place."

Standardized IQ tests are fine for pseudo-intellectuals, but I think the common sense standard is a more accurate measure.