The Nature of Things
Season 25
The Nature of Things is a Canadian television series of documentary programs. It debuted on CBC Television on November 6, 1960. Many of the programs document nature and the effect that humans have on it. The program was one of the first to explore environmental issues, such as clear-cut logging.
The series is named after an epic poem by Roman philosopher Lucretius: "Dē Rērum Nātūrā" — On the Nature of Things.
The series is named after an epic poem by Roman philosopher Lucretius: "Dē Rērum Nātūrā" — On the Nature of Things.
Where to Watch The Nature of Things • Season 25
15 Episodes
- Pain in the Back / Mobile Computers / The Birdmappers: Bird AtlasE1
Pain in the Back / Mobile Computers / The Birdmappers: Bird AtlasSeason Premiere: Treating chronic back pain; mobile data terminals for emergency personnel; and individuals tracking birds in Ontario and observing their behaviour so that a bird atlas can be published. - Kunde Hospital / Computer Choreology / Periscope CameraE2
Kunde Hospital / Computer Choreology / Periscope CameraA visit to Kunde Hospital, built in a remote Himalayan village by New Zealand explorer Sir Edmund Hillary; a look at the use of computers for dance notation which record a dancer's movement; and a camera that can perform complex film tracking shots through miniature sets. - The Miracle of LifeE4
The Miracle of LifeHost David Suzuki presents film footage of the reproductive process of mitosis, the first division of an egg that initiates the process of reproducing life. The story follows the development of the human fetus from conception until it enters the outside world. - Chinese Wall Paintings / Erie Ice / Fly FishingE5
Chinese Wall Paintings / Erie Ice / Fly FishingChinese Wall Paintings: Observing the detailed and time-consuming work involved in restoring two large fourteenth century wall paintings owned by the Royal Ontario Museum. Erie Ice: A look at the formation of ice ridges that can force themselves down into the lake bottom, carving huge gouges when they shift. Fly Fishing: A look at the sport of fly fishing, examining the life cycle of the brook trout and the mayfly and showing how detailed knowledge of the river ecosystem is necessary for successful angling. - Drought in Africa / Where the Bay Becomes the Sea / Insect CommunicationE7
Drought in Africa / Where the Bay Becomes the Sea / Insect CommunicationDrought in Africa: A brief look at the drought conditions in Ethiopia and the need for solutions at the village level. Where the Bay Becomes the Sea: A documentary about the fragile and complex marine ecosystem in the Bay of Fundy. The film traces relationships within the food chain - from tiny plankton to birds and seals and finally to whales and humans.[397] Insect Communication: A look at the hearing and sound-producing mechanisms of insects, used for attracting a mate, defining territory, and defending against bats. - Making Moves / Orchids / JugglingE8
Making Moves / Orchids / JugglingTonight's topics "Making Moves" Nerve-controlled movement is one of evolution's great innovations. We take if for granted until we're faced with its loss as are victims of spinal chord injuries. Research into basic nerve-muscle mechanisms hold promise for the recovery of movement after spinal chord injuries. And, Orchids and Juggling. - CPR: Reversing Sudden Death / Catching the Wind / Environmental SculptureE11
CPR: Reversing Sudden Death / Catching the Wind / Environmental SculptureCPR: Reversing Sudden Death: a British Columbia campaign to teach cardiopulmonary resuscitation to the general population. Catching the Wind: An examination of the skill and scientific expertise required for world-class sailing. Environmental Sculpture: In his studio in Oakville, sculptor Joseph Patriska creates art which urges government and industry to commit to a cleaner environment. - A Planet for the Taking Overview / Blue Babies / High FlightE13
A Planet for the Taking Overview / Blue Babies / High FlightTonight, an overview of the provocative series A PLANET FOR THE TAKING that begins on CBC Television Wednesday, February 6. This preview introduces viewers to a new perspective on our human role in nature. Also, Blue Babies - infants born with a heart defect are sometimes unable to receive sufficient oxygen. And, High Flight - research into the workings of bird lungs.