NOVA Season 2 Episode 12 Lysenko Affair (The)

Lysenko Affair (The) is the twelfth episode of the second season of NOVA, a documentary television series that explores the science and technology behind some of the world's most fascinating phenomena.

This episode takes viewers on a journey through the politically charged world of Soviet-era biology and genetics, as NOVA investigates the story of Trofim Lysenko, a once-powerful figure in the Soviet scientific community who rose to prominence in the 1930s with his controversial theories on plant genetics.

Lysenko's theories, which rejected the established science of genetics and embraced a form of Lamarckian evolution, were heavily promoted by Soviet authorities as a means of supporting their campaign to collectivize agriculture. Despite lacking any scientific basis, Lysenko's ideas became state doctrine and were taught in Soviet universities and research institutes.

The episode traces the dramatic rise and fall of Lysenko, revealing how his theories ultimately led to the persecution and imprisonment of countless scientists and intellectuals across the Soviet Union. Through interviews with leading experts in the field, as well as rare archival footage and photos, viewers gain a deep understanding of the political and social forces that shaped this tumultuous period in Soviet history.

Along the way, NOVA illuminates the role that science and technology played in the broader geopolitical struggles of the Cold War, showcasing the ways in which scientific theories and discoveries were often used as tools of propaganda and political control.

Overall, Lysenko Affair (The) is a fascinating glimpse into a little-known chapter in the history of science, shedding light on the surprising ways in which scientific ideas can become intertwined with politics and ideology. Whether you're a casual viewer or a seasoned science enthusiast, this episode is sure to captivate and inspire.