The Pythagorean Cup or how not to be a Greedy Bastard

I just came across this wonderful cup which was originally designed by Pythagoras. Depending on how you see it, the Pythagorean Cup (aka The Greedy Cup), is either a boon or bane for a lot of people. To see a great inventor come up with such a concept means that in those days, Alcoholics Anonymous did not exist.

Here is a boring video which is actually edited with more boring videos and filled with authentic music of unknown source.... But the concept is of the cup is in there.

The idea is very simple. Pour your drink such as wine, up to a certain level, which is not a problem for a normal drinker. But if you like your drinks a lot, you WILL dismiss that level (OK, you might not even know it exists) the cup will spill everything out, and hopefully, onto your lap. Thinking (very hard) about it, this cup does make sense and is a very effective PSA. I mean, who would be putting up posters telling people to drink sensibly in those days?

The video below shows you how to make one and if you really want a good Pythagorean cup, you'd need to take a trip to Samos, Greece. Then again, RM100 through eBay might be a cheaper alternative afterall...

But seriously, this idea can also be used to a very good effect if you have say, a water tank with a steadily dripping tap...

1. Natural timer for plant watering
2. Getting your kids/spouse to take their bath at the correct time,
3. Water rationing in Hostels and rented rooms


And lastly,
As controlled alcohol intake measure for Guests who drop by too often...