BrainStuff Season 3 Episode 20 How Does Colorblindness Work?

BrainStuff is a show that examines fascinating topics from the world of science, technology, and human behavior. In this episode, titled "How Does Colorblindness Work?", host Christian Sager takes a deep dive into the world of color vision and explores what happens when that vision goes awry.

The episode begins with an overview of how color vision works in the human eye. Sager explains that the human eye contains three types of cone cells, each of which is sensitive to a different range of colors: red, green, and blue. The brain processes the signals from these cone cells and combines them to create the full spectrum of colors that we perceive.

However, for people with color vision deficiencies – commonly known as "colorblindness" – this process is disrupted. Sager explains that the most common form of colorblindness is called "red-green colorblindness", which affects around 8% of men and 0.5% of women of Northern European descent. In this form of colorblindness, either the red-sensitive or green-sensitive cone cells in the eye are absent or don't function properly.

Sager goes on to explain the genetics behind colorblindness, and how it is often linked to the X chromosome. Because men only have one X chromosome (inherited from their mother), they are more likely to be colorblind than women. Women have two X chromosomes, so even if one of them carries a colorblindness gene, the other can compensate.

The episode also explores some of the fascinating implications of colorblindness. Sager talks to a colorblind artist who has developed his own techniques for creating vibrant and engaging artwork, despite not being able to see the full spectrum of colors. He also delves into the world of color vision tests, which are used to diagnose colorblindness and can also be used to identify certain types of vision-related medical conditions.

Throughout the episode, Sager uses engaging visuals and clear explanations to make the topic of colorblindness accessible to a wide audience. He also raises some interesting questions about the social and cultural implications of colorblindness – for example, how certain professions (such as pilots or electricians) may be inaccessible to people with color vision deficiencies, or how the use of color can influence our perceptions and emotions.

Overall, "How Does Colorblindness Work?" is a thought-provoking and informative episode that sheds light on a topic that affects millions of people around the world. Whether you're colorblind or just curious about the science of vision, this episode is well worth a watch.