Modern Life: Getting back to nature
“The Wild Life of Our Bodies” (Harper, $26.99)
(Rob Dunn) - \"The Wild Life of Our Bodies\"
(Mark DeLong/Science Channel) - Morgan Freeman interviews scientists to unravel the mysteries of life and the afterlife.
We may love air conditioning, delicious food, antibacterial hand gel and other modern comforts, but our bodies remain ready to interact with the natural world we have mostly left behind. Ecologist and science writer Rob Dunn examines the consequences of our disconnection from nature in “The Wild Life of Our Bodies.” Dunn argues that much of our fear and anxiety stems from adrenal systems that still act as if we’re being stalked by tigers. He also links the rise of Crohn’s disease — in which the immune system attacks the gut — in wealthy countries to their lack of the parasitic intestinal worms that once helped keep the intestines in harmony. He even suggests the remedy of reintroducing “domesticated” versions of the worms — a “dirty reality,” he admits.
Pondering big questions: Morgan Freeman asks, and we learn
“Through the Wormhole With Morgan Freeman”
When Morgan Freeman isn’t acting or winning Academy Awards, he’s pondering the Big Questions. In the second season of his Science Channel TV show, “Through the Wormhole.” Freeman explores provocative and sometimes spiritual topics such as: “Is there life after death?,” “Is there an edge to the universe?” and “Can we live forever?” Freeman then interviews scientists to help unravel the mysteries. “Through the Wormhole” airs Wednesdays at 10 p.m.
— Rachel Saslow
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