NationStates Jolt Archive


An experiment

Peepelonia
07-04-2008, 14:06
You work in an office type enviroment with a shared kitchen on each floor.

The day starts and it is time to brewup your hot beverage of choice, entering the kitchen you grab a clean cup, grab your teabag, or the coffee jar, or hot chocolate.

You spy on the side a small number of used teaspoons, and in the draw plenty of clean ones.

What teaspoon do you use?
Hamilay
07-04-2008, 14:08
Uh, the clean ones?

I try to avoid using strange dirty cutlery...
Laerod
07-04-2008, 14:09
My teaspoon.
Call to power
07-04-2008, 14:15
the used ones because whats the point otherwise apart from causing hassle? (however going to a different floor to raid supplies is usually what I would spend my Mondays doing:))
Rambhutan
07-04-2008, 14:16
I tend to take the teabag out with my asbestos-like fingertips.
Nipeng
07-04-2008, 14:21
My spoon. If it's unavailable (like in this scenario), I'd get a clean one. I'm lazy.
Call to power
07-04-2008, 14:21
I tend to take the teabag out with my asbestos-like fingertips.

what if your making someone else one...ewwwww!
Peepelonia
07-04-2008, 14:25
For the record, I'd go for the used spoon.
Rambhutan
07-04-2008, 14:26
what if your making someone else one...ewwwww!

If I am making tea for the entire team I would use a clean one, washed half way through when I switch from sorting out the coffees to sorting out the teas. Don't use the used ones because if you wash it then stick it in the coffee or sugar it is likely not to be properly dry and then you end up with sugar in the coffee or vice versa and that annoys me.
Tagmatium
07-04-2008, 14:35
Probably a used one, as I tend to be the person who drinks the most tea in my house, so usually it would be mine anyways. Plus, you're dunking it into nearly-boiling water, so most things would be killed by that.
Skip rat
07-04-2008, 14:53
If they were close work colleagues, then the dirty on would do (can't do much harm)
If it were a very public place, then I'd use a clean one all the time

We use plastic ones at work which is not very eco friendly as most people don't put them in the plastic recycler
Tagmatium
07-04-2008, 15:12
What does this experiment hope to show? That a large proportion of NSGers are grubby buggers, or that a lot of them are cleanliness freaks?
Rambhutan
07-04-2008, 15:13
What does this experiment hope to show? That a large proportion of NSGers are grubby buggers, or that a lot of them are cleanliness freaks?

That there is no spoon.
Peepelonia
07-04-2008, 15:16
What does this experiment hope to show? That a large proportion of NSGers are grubby buggers, or that a lot of them are cleanliness freaks?

Naaa it's more to do with the nature of the choices we make, and how logical thought does or does not come into play.

The next question was going to ask you to explain your choice.

I use the used one, as there are no germs on it, and it makes better sense to me not to produce more washing up for the poor sod that has to do it. The amount of other substances left on the used spoon is so negligable, so that it does not effect the taste of your own bevarage, so I don't see any reason to grab a clean one.

Anybody disagree.
Infinite Revolution
07-04-2008, 15:17
unless they look like they've been licked or had anything other than hot beverage on them i'd rinse a used one and use that. when i use a teaspoon for a drink i rinse it and put it in the drying wrack anyway.
Tagmatium
07-04-2008, 15:21
Naaa it's more to do with the nature of the choices we make, and how logical thought does or does not come into play.

The next question was going to ask you to explain your choice.

I use the used one, as there are no germs on it, and it makes better sense to me not to produce more washing up for the poor sod that has to do it. The amount of other substances left on the used spoon is so negligable, so that it does not effect the taste of your own bevarage, so I don't see any reason to grab a clean one.

Anybody disagree.
I totally agree with that. In fact, I've got a cuppa brewing now and I shall follow through with my above stated habit.
Laerod
07-04-2008, 15:38
Naaa it's more to do with the nature of the choices we make, and how logical thought does or does not come into play.

The next question was going to ask you to explain your choice.

I use the used one, as there are no germs on it, and it makes better sense to me not to produce more washing up for the poor sod that has to do it. The amount of other substances left on the used spoon is so negligable, so that it does not effect the taste of your own bevarage, so I don't see any reason to grab a clean one.

Anybody disagree.I disagree. You should wash your own damn spoon, you lazy twit! :mad:
Peepelonia
07-04-2008, 15:54
I disagree. You should wash your own damn spoon, you lazy twit! :mad:

Why?
New Limacon
07-04-2008, 16:01
Naaa it's more to do with the nature of the choices we make, and how logical thought does or does not come into play.

The next question was going to ask you to explain your choice.

I use the used one, as there are no germs on it, and it makes better sense to me not to produce more washing up for the poor sod that has to do it. The amount of other substances left on the used spoon is so negligable, so that it does not effect the taste of your own bevarage, so I don't see any reason to grab a clean one.

Anybody disagree.

I do one better: I dump the coffee grounds in my mouth, drink the boiling water, and allow the coffee to filter down my esophagus into my stomach. No waste!
Isidoor
07-04-2008, 16:03
Naaa it's more to do with the nature of the choices we make, and how logical thought does or does not come into play.

The next question was going to ask you to explain your choice.

I use the used one, as there are no germs on it, and it makes better sense to me not to produce more washing up for the poor sod that has to do it. The amount of other substances left on the used spoon is so negligable, so that it does not effect the taste of your own bevarage, so I don't see any reason to grab a clean one.

Anybody disagree.

Why do you think there are no germs on it? Maybe the person who used it before you had something highly contagious? Even if he didn't why assume there aren't germs on the used one, but there are on the clean ones? (you didn't state this literally but I guess you assumed that, although it seems illogical to me)

Personally I would ask myself why someone forgot to clean the spoons and take a fresh one. Afterwards I could wash them both, or not, one spoon really isn't much to wash.
Laerod
07-04-2008, 16:07
Why do you think there are no germs on it? Maybe the person who used it before you had something highly contagious? Even if he didn't why assume there aren't germs on the used one, but there are on the clean ones? (you didn't state this literally but I guess you assumed that, although it seems illogical to me)

Personally I would ask myself why someone forgot to clean the spoons and take a fresh one. Afterwards I could wash them both, or not, one spoon really isn't much to wash.The funny thing about boiling water is it's ability to kill germs.
UN Protectorates
07-04-2008, 16:12
The funny thing about boiling water is it's ability to kill germs.

Yes, but you don't completely submerse the stirring spoon into the drink, do you? The top part of the handle will remain untouched, and could still have germs on it.

Take a clean spoon. When all the spoons have been used, clean them all at once in the sink.
Laerod
07-04-2008, 16:13
Yes, but you don't completely submerse the stirring spoon into the drink, do you? The top part of the handle will remain untouched, and could still have germs on it.And? Unless you have an open wound on your finger, that shouldn't be too much of an issue.
Cabra West
07-04-2008, 16:15
You work in an office type enviroment with a shared kitchen on each floor.

The day starts and it is time to brewup your hot beverage of choice, entering the kitchen you grab a clean cup, grab your teabag, or the coffee jar, or hot chocolate.

You spy on the side a small number of used teaspoons, and in the draw plenty of clean ones.

What teaspoon do you use?

I rinse off one of the used ones.
Force of habit, there are never EVER any clean spoons in the drawer at work ;)
Peepelonia
07-04-2008, 16:17
Why do you think there are no germs on it? Maybe the person who used it before you had something highly contagious? Even if he didn't why assume there aren't germs on the used one, but there are on the clean ones? (you didn't state this literally but I guess you assumed that, although it seems illogical to me)

Personally I would ask myself why someone forgot to clean the spoons and take a fresh one. Afterwards I could wash them both, or not, one spoon really isn't much to wash.


Why assume there are germs on it?

If the spoon was taken out of the draw by the first person in, used and then left on the side, how is it then contaminated any more so than a clean spoon from the draw?

Presumeably the spoon has been used, not stuck in some guys mouth, then left for others to use. Why not use it, it saves time, and washingup.
Extreme Ironing
07-04-2008, 16:20
Depends on how the spoon looks and what the other people are like. Though I would rather wash one of the used spoons than get a clean one out.
Hotwife
07-04-2008, 16:28
I always go next door to Starbucks to get my coffee.
Isidoor
07-04-2008, 16:46
The funny thing about boiling water is it's ability to kill germs.

Not all germs (especially not if the guy using it before you put it in his mouth), and who makes tea with boiling water anyway, you'd have to wait an hour until it's drinkable.

Why assume there are germs on it?

If the spoon was taken out of the draw by the first person in, used and then left on the side, how is it then contaminated any more so than a clean spoon from the draw?

Presumeably the spoon has been used, not stuck in some guys mouth, then left for others to use. Why not use it, it saves time, and washingup.

well I assumed that he put it in his mouth. You really put to much thinking in stuff like this though, I don't think I would think that much about which spoon to use and probably just take clean one to be sure, one spoon isn't much extra washing up.
Peepelonia
07-04-2008, 17:01
Not all germs (especially not if the guy using it before you put it in his mouth), and who makes tea with boiling water anyway, you'd have to wait an hour until it's drinkable.



well I assumed that he put it in his mouth. You really put to much thinking in stuff like this though, I don't think I would think that much about which spoon to use and probably just take clean one to be sure, one spoon isn't much extra washing up.


I'm always gonna assume that the only place it has been is the beverage pot, and the cup. I mean I only ever put the spoon in the container with the coffee, then into my cup, why would anybody then stick a hot spoon in their mouths?

As to thinking too much about, heh please read upwards and you'll find my reason for asking the question.

Going back to you though if I may, although we have seen that the spoon is 'clean' enough to use, and it cuts down on the washing, you would still use a clean one of run the used one under the tap.

Do you suppose this is down to some sorta pre programing to stay away from germs, are you paroniod, have you failed to just think it through before decideing on the best course of action? Or why?
Infinite Revolution
07-04-2008, 17:01
you can't make tea properly without boiling water.
New Manvir
07-04-2008, 17:07
a fork.
Pure Metal
07-04-2008, 17:29
the clean ones. and i wash up the one i use afterwards, too.


though, in reality, none of them because teabag + teapot + mug with milk = no need for spoon :)


I rinse off one of the used ones.
Force of habit, there are never EVER any clean spoons in the drawer at work ;)

true, that. i'd probably wash off the "clean" ones before use as well. i don't at home, because i trust people there.
JuNii
07-04-2008, 17:40
You work in an office type enviroment with a shared kitchen on each floor.

The day starts and it is time to brewup your hot beverage of choice, entering the kitchen you grab a clean cup, grab your teabag, or the coffee jar, or hot chocolate.

You spy on the side a small number of used teaspoons, and in the draw plenty of clean ones.

What teaspoon do you use?
I would use a clean spoon, then while my Hot Chocolate was cooling, I would wash all the used spoons and dry them.
IL Ruffino
07-04-2008, 17:48
You work in an office type enviroment with a shared kitchen on each floor.

The day starts and it is time to brewup your hot beverage of choice, entering the kitchen you grab a clean cup, grab your teabag, or the coffee jar, or hot chocolate.

You spy on the side a small number of used teaspoons, and in the draw plenty of clean ones.

What teaspoon do you use?

I go to Starbucks and avoid contact with other employees.
New Malachite Square
07-04-2008, 18:09
You spy on the side a small number of used teaspoons, and in the draw plenty of clean ones.

What teaspoon do you use?

I use one of the dirty ones, because I don't want to disrupt whatever office game/activity the clean ones are being used for.

Pet peeves ahoy!
Daistallia 2104
07-04-2008, 18:23
You work in an office type enviroment with a shared kitchen on each floor.

The day starts and it is time to brewup your hot beverage of choice, entering the kitchen you grab a clean cup, grab your teabag, or the coffee jar, or hot chocolate.

You spy on the side a small number of used teaspoons, and in the draw plenty of clean ones.

What teaspoon do you use?

None. My hot beverage of choice (black or herbal tea, no sugar) doesn't require a spoon.
JuNii
07-04-2008, 18:42
Why assume there are germs on it?

If the spoon was taken out of the draw by the first person in, used and then left on the side, how is it then contaminated any more so than a clean spoon from the draw?

Presumeably the spoon has been used, not stuck in some guys mouth, then left for others to use. Why not use it, it saves time, and washingup.

Presumeably, but you really don't know. especially when you don't really know if someone used it for their drink or food.

I don't like the taste of coffee, and I would be able to taste it in my HC even if I only used a spoon that someone dipped in coffee.

what if someone is allergic to chocolate and uses a used spoon that was used in Hot chocolate?

unconciously, I would lick the spoon after stirring, (to taste if I need to add anything) so why should I presume that others don't do that?

I would rather they wash the spoon after using it. just as easy and takes very little time.
Mad hatters in jeans
07-04-2008, 23:01
You work in an office type enviroment with a shared kitchen on each floor.

The day starts and it is time to brewup your hot beverage of choice, entering the kitchen you grab a clean cup, grab your teabag, or the coffee jar, or hot chocolate.

You spy on the side a small number of used teaspoons, and in the draw plenty of clean ones.

What teaspoon do you use?

I'd use a clean teaspoon to make my beverage of choice, then clean it afterward. Simple as that.
The next experiment had better be a good one.
Llewdor
07-04-2008, 23:05
Naaa it's more to do with the nature of the choices we make, and how logical thought does or does not come into play.

The next question was going to ask you to explain your choice.

I use the used one, as there are no germs on it, and it makes better sense to me not to produce more washing up for the poor sod that has to do it. The amount of other substances left on the used spoon is so negligable, so that it does not effect the taste of your own bevarage, so I don't see any reason to grab a clean one.

Anybody disagree.

But it does affect the taste of my beverage. I measure the components added to my tea very carefully, and any amount of chocolate or coffee would really screw that up.

Plus, there's also no cost to me in producing more washing up for the next guy, so I have no incentive to choose the used spoon.

And, I disagree that there are no germs on the used spoons. You don't know that; how those spoons were used by others isn't something I know. They could have been dropped under the fridge or used to eat cereal or something. I'm not going near other people's used spoons.
Iniika
07-04-2008, 23:28
Clean.

I don't know where that spoon has been, what it's touched, what it's been in, how long it's been left lying on the counter.

Better safe than sorry.

Though here, we all use disposable spoons anyway.
Gwljdodnfyglijjijip
07-04-2008, 23:45
Who uses spoons to stir hot beverages? I thought that was what the cock was for.
Ashmoria
08-04-2008, 01:14
clean. thats why there is more than one spoon available.
Pure Metal
08-04-2008, 01:20
has anyone said "there is no spoon" yet?
Geniasis
08-04-2008, 01:48
Unable to find a choice I am comfortable with, I slink back into a corner until someone else comes in a chooses a spoon. Then, imitating Splinter Cell, I kill him from behind and stash the body after taking his spoon.
Tagmatium
08-04-2008, 02:01
Presumeably, but you really don't know. especially when you don't really know if someone used it for their drink or food.

I don't like the taste of coffee, and I would be able to taste it in my HC even if I only used a spoon that someone dipped in coffee.

what if someone is allergic to chocolate and uses a used spoon that was used in Hot chocolate?

unconciously, I would lick the spoon after stirring, (to taste if I need to add anything) so why should I presume that others don't do that?

I would rather they wash the spoon after using it. just as easy and takes very little time.
Undoubtedly, if one knew that a certain person within one's office or whatever that had an allergy, then that would be a different story. It's not like people leave caches of nuts around for people who are allergic to nuts to find. People kind of accept that sort of thing, as it tends to be bad for people who have that allergy, if not down right fatal.

And the whole unconciously licking the spoon is just gross and massively bad manners. I tend to do judge the milk-content of tea by eye, and sugar content by how many spoons I care to ladle in for those which like that.
DrVenkman
08-04-2008, 06:04
Why?

Or else you're a lazy twat!
Wilgrove
08-04-2008, 06:34
Clean one, why the Hell would I use a dirty one?
Anti-Social Darwinism
08-04-2008, 07:10
I'd use the clean spoon, there's no telling where the used ones have been. But then, I'd probably volunteer to take the dirty dishes home and run them through the dishwasher.
Errinundera
08-04-2008, 08:31
I'd get all the dirty spoons and put them in the dishwasher!
Damor
08-04-2008, 10:04
I'd take a clean one; and then clean it some more before using it.
Peepelonia
08-04-2008, 11:42
Presumeably, but you really don't know. especially when you don't really know if someone used it for their drink or food.

I don't like the taste of coffee, and I would be able to taste it in my HC even if I only used a spoon that someone dipped in coffee.

what if someone is allergic to chocolate and uses a used spoon that was used in Hot chocolate?

unconciously, I would lick the spoon after stirring, (to taste if I need to add anything) so why should I presume that others don't do that?

I would rather they wash the spoon after using it. just as easy and takes very little time.

Well theres the rub, like us all we both have based our assumptions on our own reletive experiances. If you will go around spoon licking then I can understand your new spoon 'need', myself and I'm willing to bet the same is true for the majority, I do not lick the teaspoon I have just used to stir my coffee.

Ultimatly though it seems that our desicion, both for the clean and the used are based in our subjective experieance coupled with a little logical though on the matter.

It seems that both options are viable, and that not one has greater 'merit' than the other, it is down to personal preferance.

Which is what this thread was about really, so I would ask how much bleedover does this 'personal preferance' have over the other kinds of logical desicions we make for our selves everyday?
Peepelonia
08-04-2008, 12:06
Clean one, why the Hell would I use a dirty one?

How do you know it is dirty? Let me ask you this one, when you are at a party do you eat the shared nibbles from the bowl, or would you first wash you hands, take a handfull into the bathroom, carefully wash each one, wash your hands again, and then eat them?

There worse things that we do each day than using a used spoon to stir ones coffee.
Peepelonia
08-04-2008, 12:07
Or else you're a lazy twat!

Guilty on that, except the twat bit, but I'll let that one slide.
Bewilder
08-04-2008, 12:24
At home I use one cup and one spoon for however many cuppas I have in the day, and its usually the same spoon that my partner used for his breakfast cuppa. In this case, I know that the spoon was clean in the morning and has only been used by the two of us and has only been in contact with hot beverage and the clean surface.

In the office scenario you described, I'd wash a "clean" spoon before using it because some people are disgusting, don't wash their hands after using the toilet and don't wash spoons properly either. I have no idea who may have used the spoons previously, and what they may have used them for, and in the interests of actually enjoying my coffee instead of wondering what I've added to it, I'd prefer to clean a spoon myself.
Austar Union
08-04-2008, 12:32
Interesting experiment. I tend to just use a clean one and wash up after myself when faced with the above situation (I think it's rude to leave dirty dishes after you've just used them). But I'm not particularly germophobic, in fact, I have no worries using a dirty one after I've rinsed it under running water.

Nevertheless, I'd consider it more habitual than logical. If I thought it out, I suppose I'd have to think about what I wanted most.

(IE: Avoid the used ones because they could have germs, make use of the pre-used spoons to avoid creating MORE dishes for the poor sod who cleans up at the end of each day, or what have you).
Rasta-dom
08-04-2008, 12:33
That there is no spoon.

Win.
Dyakovo
09-04-2008, 15:42
You work in an office type enviroment with a shared kitchen on each floor.

The day starts and it is time to brewup your hot beverage of choice, entering the kitchen you grab a clean cup, grab your teabag, or the coffee jar, or hot chocolate.

You spy on the side a small number of used teaspoons, and in the draw plenty of clean ones.

What teaspoon do you use?

One of the clean ones...