Origins Of Disease: An Evolutionary Perspective

Watch Origins Of Disease: An Evolutionary Perspective

  • 2017
  • 1 Season

Origins Of Disease: An Evolutionary Perspective is a thought-provoking documentary series that delves into the evolutionary history of various diseases and how they have shaped human history. Produced by Film Ideas, Inc., a renowned media production company that is widely known for its documentaries and educational programs, the show provides a fascinating look into the origins of some of the deadliest diseases humanity has faced.

The series is divided into several episodes, each focused on a particular disease, including malaria, tuberculosis, and Ebola. The episodes follow a format that alternates between interviews with leading experts in the field of infectious diseases and captivating reenactments of key events in human history that were shaped by the disease being discussed.

Throughout the series, the viewer is taken on a journey through time, exploring the various factors that have contributed to the emergence and spread of these diseases. We learn how climate, geography, and human migration patterns have played crucial roles in shaping the distribution of diseases across the globe. The show also delves into the genetic and evolutionary mechanisms that have allowed diseases to adapt and evolve over time, making them even more perilous to human populations.

One of the key strengths of Origins Of Disease: An Evolutionary Perspective is its ability to communicate complex scientific concepts in a way that is accessible and engaging to audiences. The show doesn't shy away from difficult topics such as genetic mutations, natural selection, and the co-evolution of pathogens and their hosts. However, the series uses vivid animations and illustrations to make these concepts more understandable.

The show also does an excellent job of contextualizing the diseases it covers within their historical and cultural context. We learn how diseases such as smallpox and the bubonic plague have been linked to some of the most significant events in human history, from wars to mass migrations. The interviews with historians and anthropologists also shed light on how the perceptions of these diseases have changed over time, and how different cultures have responded to them.

Another strength of the show is its focus on the social and economic impact of diseases. We see how diseases such as tuberculosis and HIV have disproportionately affected certain populations, particularly the poor and marginalized. The series also touches on the political and ethical dilemmas that arise when trying to control the spread of diseases, such as quarantine measures and mandatory vaccinations.

Overall, Origins Of Disease: An Evolutionary Perspective is an exceptional documentary series that combines rigorous scientific research with a compelling narrative. The show combines stunning visuals, well-chosen interviews, and powerful storytelling to deliver a fascinating account of how diseases have shaped our world. Not only is the series informative and engaging, but it also highlights the urgent need for continued research and development of treatments and vaccines for these deadly diseases.

Origins Of Disease: An Evolutionary Perspective is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (4 episodes). The series first aired on August 1, 2017.

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Seasons
Stroke: The Price Of Rapid Evolution
4. Stroke: The Price Of Rapid Evolution
August 1, 2017
The human brain has undergone dramatic evolutionary advances. Today, however, humans suffer from strokes because brain size increased too rapidly during the course of human evolution. The blood supply to our brains increased threefold during the last 2.5 million years, but the walls of our blood vessels didn't adjust to this change and remain fragile.
Heart Disease: Flaws In A High Performance Pump
3. Heart Disease: Flaws In A High Performance Pump
August 1, 2017
According to the World Health Organization, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the world. Why do people get heart disease and how can we prevent it? This program examines how the human predisposition for heart disease was the price for evolution.
Depression: Legacy Of The Survival Instinct
2. Depression: Legacy Of The Survival Instinct
August 1, 2017
Scientists discovered that under certain conditions, the part of the fish brain that works to protect them from natural predators goes out of control and causes depression. When mammals began living in groups, they developed traits that lead to a similar, poorly regulated response in the brain. This program also introduces the latest treatments.
Cancer: Evolution's Deadly Result
1. Cancer: Evolution's Deadly Result
August 1, 2017
One of the leading health threats to humans is cancer. However, wild animals rarely get this disease. Why are humans more at risk of developing cancer? When humans became bipedal in Africa, they also developed bigger brains. It seems this created the ideal conditions for cancer cell growth.
Description
Where to Watch Origins Of Disease: An Evolutionary Perspective
Origins Of Disease: An Evolutionary Perspective is available for streaming on the Film IdeasInc. website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Origins Of Disease: An Evolutionary Perspective on demand at Amazon.
  • Premiere Date
    August 1, 2017