Ep 6. Can We Resurrect The Dead?

Through the Wormhole is a popular science documentary show that explores some of the most profound questions of science that affect us all. Season 3 episode 6, titled Can We Resurrect The Dead?, delves into the possibilities of bringing people back to life and stunningly explores the many ethical and moral dilemmas at the core of the idea.

The episode starts by examining the ancient myths and beliefs of resurrection from different cultures across the globe. From Ancient Egypt's Book of the Dead, ancient Taoist beliefs to modern-day religious practices, many cultures talk about resurrection as a way to transcend death and live forever.

As science progresses, the show explores some of the work that is currently being done on resurrecting the dead. The episode talks about how some species of animals like tardigrades and hydra can go into a state of suspended animation and then come back to life after years of inactivity. The possibility of replicating this effect in humans also intrigues scientists, and the episode dives into the research in this field.

The show talks to several medical experts about current techniques used in resuscitation to revive patients who have flatlined. They also examine how cryonics can be used to preserve the body in extreme cold temperatures, so that it can be brought back to life when science advances.

The episode also explores the science behind death and how it's classified. The various stages of death, ranging from clinical death to biological death, has fascinated medical professionals for many years. They explain how there is the potential to reverse the stages of death and proceed with resuscitation successfully.

The show then explores some of the moral and ethical questions surrounding resurrection. The idea of disrupting nature and tampering with death is a contentious one, and the episode delves into conversations around playing god and whether the resurrection of the dead is ethically permissible. The ethics debate thus proves to be both interesting and thought-provoking.

The show also discusses the darker side of resurrection research, where people are being prepared for resurrection without knowing the dangers involved. The episode raises some critical ethical concerns about this practice and explains how it is prohibited in some countries.

Lastly, the episode looks to the future at a time when science has advanced enough to effectively bring people back to life. How the world would change, how societies would handle the practicalities including legal and medical, of resurrecting the dead are some future-facing ideas that the show examines.

Through the Wormhole Season 3 episode 6, "Can We Resurrect The Dead?" is a thought-provoking and insightful episode which brings to the forefront ethical and moral concerns surrounding resurrection, adding a new dimension to the debate about the afterlife, and making us think about the meaning of immortality. The show takes viewers on a journey into the possibilities and limitations of science and our understanding of death, bringing in some fascinating scientific and philosophical perspectives on what it means to live forever.