Through the Wormhole Season 5 Episode 6 Is a Zombie Apocalypse Possible?

In episode 6 of season 5 of Through the Wormhole, the question is raised as to whether a zombie apocalypse is actually possible. The episode describes how the concept of zombies has captured the public imagination, with countless movies and TV shows featuring the undead as the main antagonist. However, the question remains whether a real-life scenario could actually occur.

The episode begins by examining how the zombie genre has evolved over the years, from the slow-moving shuffling zombies of George Romero's Night of the Living Dead to the fast-moving, virus-infected zombies of films like 28 Days Later. The evolution of the genre has led many to wonder whether a real virus or disease could turn people into zombies.

To answer this question, the episode looks at the science behind viruses and zombie-like symptoms. It examines the idea of a variant of the rabies virus causing zombie-like symptoms, as well as other viruses that could potentially lead to similar symptoms. Experts weigh in on the likelihood of such a virus existing and whether it could actually spread and cause a global pandemic.

The episode also explores the idea of parasites causing zombie-like behavior in humans. It looks at the case of the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, which can infect humans and alter their behavior. While not exactly turning people into zombies, the parasite can cause symptoms similar to those seen in zombie movies, such as loss of fear and increased risk-taking behavior.

The episode also delves into the world of neurology to explain how certain brain injuries or diseases can cause people to act in ways that are similar to zombie behavior. It examines the case of Charles Whitman, a man who went on a shooting spree in 1966, and was found to have a brain tumor that may have contributed to his violent behavior. The episode looks at other cases where brain injuries or diseases have been linked to violence or unusual behavior.

Throughout the episode, experts weigh in on the likelihood of a zombie apocalypse occurring. While many agree that a virus or disease causing zombie-like symptoms could potentially exist, the likelihood of it spreading globally and causing a pandemic is deemed to be low. The episode explores the reasons why, including the fact that human behavior is often unpredictable and difficult to control.

In conclusion, the episode provides an interesting and entertaining look at the science behind the zombie genre and whether a zombie apocalypse is actually possible. While the idea may seem far-fetched, the episode shows that there is some science to suggest that it could potentially happen. However, the experts also caution that the likelihood of it happening is low, and that we should be more concerned about more realistic threats, such as pandemics and climate change. Overall, the episode is a thought-provoking exploration of a popular cultural phenomenon, and is sure to appeal to fans of the zombie genre and science enthusiasts alike.