Nightline Season 32 Episode 7 Tue, Apr 5, 2011

On Tuesday, April 5, 2011, Nightline presents Season 32, Episode 7, featuring a compelling lineup of stories delving into pressing issues and captivating human tales.

The episode kicks off with a riveting report on the rising epidemic of prescription drug abuse in America. Correspondent Cynthia McFadden takes viewers on a profound journey through the dark underbelly of this devastating crisis. Exploring the far-reaching consequences of this epidemic, McFadden interviews individuals whose lives have been shattered by addiction and speaks with experts on the front lines battling against this pervasive problem. With a captivating mix of investigative journalism and personal stories, this segment offers a harrowing portrait of the realities surrounding prescription drug abuse.

Next, Nightline turns its attention to the power of social media as a force for political change. With the recent uprisings across the Middle East, social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook have played a pivotal role in mobilizing protesters and spreading awareness. In this episode, correspondent Terry Moran investigates how these digital tools are reshaping the political landscape. Through interviews with activists, journalists, and tech influencers, Moran explores the impact of social media on social movements, its potentials for democratization, and the challenges it faces in an ever-evolving digital world.

Continuing the episode's exploration of technological advancements, Nightline examines the rise of self-driving cars. Correspondent Juju Chang takes viewers into the realm of autonomous vehicles, offering an exclusive look into the cutting-edge technology behind these groundbreaking machines. Through interviews with engineers, testers, and industry leaders, Chang delves into the promises and potential pitfalls of self-driving cars. From concerns about safety and ethical dilemmas to the anticipated benefits of reduced traffic congestion and increased mobility, this segment delves into the future of transportation and the societal transformations it entails.

Shifting gears, Nightline features an emotionally resonant story about the enduring impact of Hurricane Katrina, six years after its devastation. Correspondent Martin Bashir revisits New Orleans, a city still grappling with the aftermath of this catastrophic event. Bashir's interviews with residents and local leaders shed light on the progress made, the challenges that remain, and the indomitable spirit of this resilient community. Through intimate storytelling and a poignant examination of the struggles faced by those affected by the disaster, this segment offers a powerful reminder of the human resilience that emerges from tragedy.

In the final segment of this episode, Nightline takes a closer look at scientific breakthroughs that aim to enhance and extend human life. Correspondent Bill Weir delves into the fascinating world of anti-aging research and longevity science, exploring cutting-edge developments in the field. Through interviews with visionaries in the anti-aging movement and individuals pushing the boundaries of human longevity, Weir invites viewers into a world where medical innovation seeks to redefine the limits of our existence. From genetic therapies to cryonics, this thought-provoking segment probes the ethical implications and possibilities of a future where we may live longer, healthier lives.

In this captivating episode of Nightline, viewers are treated to a diverse range of stories that engage, inform, and challenge conventional perspectives. From the dark realities of prescription drug abuse to the future of transportation and the timeless resilience of communities affected by natural disasters, this episode proves to be a thought-provoking and multifaceted exploration of significant issues impacting our world. As Nightline continues its long-standing tradition of investigative journalism and human-interest storytelling, viewers are compelled to consider the complexities and nuances that shape our lives in the 21st century.