List of The Nature of Things episodes

The Nature of Things (also, The Nature of Things with David Suzuki) 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 mainstream programs to present scientific evidence on a number of environmental issues, including nuclear power and genetic engineering".[1] The series is named after an epic poem by Roman philosopher Lucretius: "De rerum natura" – On the Nature of Things.

Season 1: 1960–1961[edit]

  • Sundays at 5:30 pm
  • Length 30 minutes
Title Broadcast date Episode
"Why Is It So"11/06/1960 (Sun) (11/06/1960 (Sun))1

Debut: National Research Council president Dr. E.W.R. Steacie, reminisces about the change in attitudes of science during the course of his career. In a clip from an upcoming show, Dr. Wilder Penfield of the Montreal Neurological Institute describes his work with the human brain. The host is Donald Ivey.[2]
"The Roar of the Crowd"11/13/1960 (Sun) (11/13/1960 (Sun))2

Study of brain cells, how research has helped the understanding of learning and memory. Filmed at the Montreal Neurological Institute, with Dr. Wilder Penfield and Dr. Herbert Jasper.[3][4]
"The Future of Science"11/20/1960 (Sun) (11/20/1960 (Sun))3

Professor Donald Ivey probes the attitudes and working habits of scientists.[5]
"Schizophrenia"11/27/1960 (Sun) (11/27/1960 (Sun))4
"Engineering"12/04/1960 (Sun) (12/04/1960 (Sun))5
"Man as an Environment"12/11/1960 (Sun) (12/11/1960 (Sun))6
"Science Fiction"12/18/1960 (Sun) (12/18/1960 (Sun))7
"A special Christmas edition"12/25/1960 (Sun) (12/25/1960 (Sun))8
"The Aurora-Borealis"01/01/1961 (Sun) (01/01/1961 (Sun))9
"Man as an Environment – Human Body"01/08/1961 (Sun) (01/08/1961 (Sun))10
"Kept Alive"01/15/1961 (Sun) (01/15/1961 (Sun))11
"Physics and Games – Laws of Probability"01/22/1961 (Sun) (01/22/1961 (Sun))12
"The Face of the Moon"01/29/1961 (Sun) (01/29/1961 (Sun))13
"Hibernation"02/05/1961 (Sun) (02/05/1961 (Sun))14
"Man and His Environment"02/12/1961 (Sun) (02/12/1961 (Sun))15
"Eclipse"02/19/1961 (Sun) (02/19/1961 (Sun))16
"Animal Communication"02/26/1961 (Sun) (02/26/1961 (Sun))17
"The Speed of Light"03/05/1961 (Sun) (03/05/1961 (Sun))18
"Monotony"03/12/1961 (Sun) (03/12/1961 (Sun))19

Dr. John Zubec of the University of Manitoba explains his experiments and studies on boredom and its effects on the human mind.[6]
"The Chemical Senses"03/19/1961 (Sun) (03/19/1961 (Sun))20
"The Mohole: Earth's Crust"04/02/1961 (Sun) (04/02/1961 (Sun))21
"Laws of Conservation"04/16/1961 (Sun) (04/16/1961 (Sun))22
"Photosynthesis"04/23/1961 (Sun) (04/23/1961 (Sun))23
"Physics of Clouds"04/30/1961 (Sun) (04/30/1961 (Sun))24
"The Sources of Science"05/07/1961 (Sun) (05/07/1961 (Sun))25

Season 2: 1962[edit]

  • Thursdays at 8:00 pm
  • Length 30 minutes
Title Broadcast date Episode
"Looking Ahead"01/04/1962 (Thu) (01/04/1962 (Thu))1
"Photography in Science"01/11/1962 (Thu) (01/11/1962 (Thu))2
"To Educate a Scientist"01/18/1962 (Thu) (01/18/1962 (Thu))3
"The Situation Is Fluid"01/25/1962 (Thu) (01/25/1962 (Thu))4
"Gallstones"02/01/1962 (Thu) (02/01/1962 (Thu))5
"The Upper Mantle Project"; alternate title: "Prisoners in the Penthouse"02/08/1962 (Thu) (02/08/1962 (Thu))6

Guest J. Tuzo Wilson, Professor of Physics, University of Toronto, and host Lister Sinclair look at a Canadian plan to survey the part of the Earth lying immediately under the crust to learn more about the Earth's formation, its landscapes and weather.[7]
"The Physics of Music"02/22/1962 (Thu) (02/22/1962 (Thu))7
"Survival"03/01/1962 (Thu) (03/01/1962 (Thu))8

An appraisal of the probable effects of a large-scale nuclear blast over a North American city.[8] Dr. Tom Stonier of the Rockefeller Institute of Government discusses what can be expected to happen to people and property as a result of such a blast.
"Man and the Moon"03/08/1962 (Thu) (03/08/1962 (Thu))9
"Hibernating Molecules"; alternate title: "A Prize for the Lowest"03/15/1962 (Thu) (03/15/1962 (Thu))10

Hosts Dr. Donald Ivey and Dr. Patterson Hume talk about conditions at extremely cold temperatures, when matter 'hibernates' and molecular action slows almost to a complete stop, and how this allows physicists to study the basic structure of matter.[9]
"Monkey Curiosity"03/29/1962 (Thu) (03/29/1962 (Thu))11
"Spermatozoa"04/05/1962 (Thu) (04/05/1962 (Thu))12

Lord Rothschild of the University of Cambridge describes the results of his research in the field of spermatozoa.[10]
"Animals With Feathers"04/12/1962 (Thu) (04/12/1962 (Thu))13

Dr. William Swinton, head of the Royal Ontario Museum's Life Sciences Department, and John Livingston, executive director of the National Audubon Society, trace the history of birds.[11]
"Getting the Upper Hand"; alternate title: "Beetles and Bombs"04/26/1962 (Thu) (04/26/1962 (Thu))14

This program looks at failures and successes in attempts at Biological pest control. The stories include the spread of Dutch elm disease in Canada, and control of the screw-worm fly in Florida.[12]
"Thinking about Math"; alternate title: "The Numbers Game"05/03/1962 (Thu) (05/03/1962 (Thu))15

Host Lister Sinclair discusses the thinking that goes into the science of mathematics. Using animated film and studio demonstrations, he explains Mathematical logic.[13]
"The Plague"05/10/1962 (Thu) (05/10/1962 (Thu))16
"Instant Heat"05/17/1962 (Thu) (05/17/1962 (Thu))17

Co-hosted by Drs. Patterson Hume and Donald Ivey, of the University of Toronto. They show how electricity can be produced directly from heat, and vice versa, and discuss the difficulties of transforming thermal energy into electrical energy.[14]
"A Science Newsreel"05/24/1962 (Thu) (05/24/1962 (Thu))18
"Learning"06/07/1962 (Thu) (06/07/1962 (Thu))19
"A Bang-Up Job"06/21/1962 (Thu) (06/21/1962 (Thu))20
"Out of Africa"06/28/1962 (Thu) (06/28/1962 (Thu))21
"Count on Me"07/12/1962 (Thu) (07/12/1962 (Thu))22

Computers are given the once-over by Drs. Donald Ivey and Patterson Hume.[15]
"Blood in the Balance"07/19/1962 (Thu) (07/19/1962 (Thu))23
"Getting Us Typed"07/26/1962 (Thu) (07/26/1962 (Thu))24

Examines work of Dr. William Sheldon, who has spent 30 years gathering statistics about the human physique, classifying body types, and correlating this information to medical and psychiatric studies.[16]

Season 3: 1963[edit]

  • Sundays at 5:30 pm
  • Length 30 minutes
Title Broadcast date Episode
"Looking Ahead"01/06/1963 (Sun) (01/06/1963 (Sun))1

Host Lister Sinclair explains how scientists approach their work and how The Nature of Things will present scientific items during its 26-week run.[17]
"Brainwashing"01/13/1963 (Sun) (01/13/1963 (Sun))2
"Tubes to Transistors"01/20/1963 (Sun) (01/20/1963 (Sun))3

Hosts Dr. Patterson Hume and Dr. Donald Ivey of the University of Toronto talk about the electronics age brought about by the vacuum tube and the transistor.[18]
"From Water to Land"; alternate title: "Lungs, Legs & Eggs"01/27/1963 (Sun) (01/27/1963 (Sun))4

The story of how vertebrates transitioned from water to land. Palaeontologist Dr. Alfred S. Romer of Harvard University explains the evolution of lungs, legs, and a new kind of egg found in aquatic creatures.[19]
"Chemistry of Salt"02/03/1963 (Sun) (02/03/1963 (Sun))5
"Ear Operation"02/10/1963 (Sun) (02/10/1963 (Sun))6
"The Way the Ball Bounces"02/17/1963 (Sun) (02/17/1963 (Sun))7

Professors Donald Ivey and Patterson Hume demonstrate the principles behind the bounce in a rubber ball, and discuss elasticity by comparing rubber and steel.
"Lie Detectors"; alternate title: "I Kid You Not"02/24/1963 (Sun) (02/24/1963 (Sun))8

Host is Dr. John Rich, a psychiatrist with the University of Toronto and Queen's University. This program examines the autonomic nervous system, how it works, and what it can reveal.[20]
"Smoking and Lung Cancer"03/03/1963 (Sun) (03/03/1963 (Sun))9
"Science Museums"03/10/1963 (Sun) (03/10/1963 (Sun))10

To commemorate the Canadian Centennial in 1967 it has been proposed that Canada build a national museum of science. The program includes filmed demonstrations of how science and technology can be made meaningful to the general public.[21]
"Count on Me"03/17/1963 (Sun) (03/17/1963 (Sun))11

Drs. Patterson Hume and Donald Ivey of the University of Toronto explain the history and operation of what were once called calculating machines and are now known as computers. The program emphasizes how computers store information, produce it on demand, and use the offered information in the best possible way.[22] (repeat from 07/12/1962)
"Tornadoes"03/24/1963 (Sun) (03/24/1963 (Sun))12
"The Descent of Man"03/31/1963 (Sun) (03/31/1963 (Sun))13

Recent fossil discoveries in Africa have shed new light on the ancestry and evolution of man. Guest Dr. L.S.B. Leakey, renowned British anthropologist and paleontologist, unearthed fossil remains in the Olduvai Gorge that have extended the time scale of human evolution from 500,000 to two million years or more. A deductive story in anthropology and paleontology is told as Dr. Leakey describes his finds and interprets their significance.[23]
"Isaac Newton"; alternate title: "The Boy on the Seashore"04/07/1963 (Sun) (04/07/1963 (Sun))14

Series consultant Lister Sinclair pays tribute to Sir Isaac Newton. The program attempts to capture the spirit of the time through the words of Newton himself and those of his contemporaries.[24]
"New Atoms for Old"04/14/1963 (Sun) (04/14/1963 (Sun))15
"Car Crashes"04/21/1963 (Sun) (04/21/1963 (Sun))16
"Bird Migration"05/05/1963 (Sun) (05/05/1963 (Sun))17
"Fact & Fiction"05/12/1963 (Sun) (05/12/1963 (Sun))18
"Code of Life"05/19/1963 (Sun) (05/19/1963 (Sun))19
"The Chemistry of Bread"; alternate title: "To Make A Long Story Short"05/26/1963 (Sun) (05/26/1963 (Sun))20

This program explores the chemistry of food and explains what properties food must have to fuel the body properly.[25]
"The Infra-Red"; alternate title: "A Blush in the Dark"06/02/1963 (Sun) (06/02/1963 (Sun))21

Detection of heat waves by special infra-red receptors has many industrial, military, and other uses. Dr. Harry Pullen of the Radio Corporation of America research laboratories, Montreal, describes the properties of infra-red and demonstrates technological applications.[26]
"Human Overpopulation"06/09/1963 (Sun) (06/09/1963 (Sun))22

Since the Industrial Revolution medical and other technological advances have offset natural controls, and the human species increased so rapidly that adequate future food supplies are in doubt. Sir Julian Huxley and Sir Charles Galton Darwin were interviewed about this aspect of human ecology.[27]
"Mars"06/16/1963 (Sun) (06/16/1963 (Sun))23
"Spiders"06/23/1963 (Sun) (06/23/1963 (Sun))24
"Hypnosis"06/30/1963 (Sun) (06/30/1963 (Sun))25

Season 4: 1964[edit]

Title Broadcast date Episode
"Einstein, Man & Mathematician"05/05/1964 (Tue) (05/05/1964 (Tue))01

An examination of the personality and achievement of Albert Einstein. Dr. Jacob Bronowski of the Salk Institute for Biological Studies at La Jolla, California, one of the most distinguished and articulate interpreters of Einstein, shows the practicality and simplicity of Einstein's thinking. Einstein's ideas are demonstrated with the aid of models specially constructed for the show. Also includes film of Einstein's early days in Europe and a short film in which Einstein explains the relationship between matter and energy.[28]
"About the Size of It"05/12/1964 (Tue) (05/12/1964 (Tue))02
"Standards for Comparison"05/19/1964 (Tue) (05/19/1964 (Tue))03
"Excursion Into Hell"05/26/1964 (Tue) (05/26/1964 (Tue))04

Centuries ago, people in warmer parts of the earth believed that a dread disease was contracted from unhealthy air generated in swamps. From this belief came the word "malaria," which means "bad air". The word is still used to describe a parasitic disease that remains one of the world's major public health problems. Efforts to find and isolate the causes of malaria make one of the greatest scientific detective stories of all time. Mosquitoes of the genus Anopheles were found to be implicated. But so far, their control is far from accomplished. Program features Dr. A. Murray Fallis, parasitologist with the Ontario Research Foundation and professor at the University of Toronto. Host is Lister Sinclair.[29]
"Surgery for Parkinson's Disease"06/02/1964 (Tue) (06/02/1964 (Tue))05
"Science of Sports"06/09/1964 (Tue) (06/09/1964 (Tue))06

Athletic skills and physical capabilities can be precisely measured, so that there is truly a "science of sports". Host Lister Sinclair and Lloyd Percival, sports authority, observe athletes' capacities being tested in the studio and comment on films demonstrating techniques of various sports.[30]
"Hypnosis"06/16/1964 (Tue) (06/16/1964 (Tue))repeat

Special guest Dr. Martin T. Orne of the psychiatry department at Harvard University Medical School discusses many aspects of hypnosis with series consultant Lister Sinclair.[31][32]
"Lasers"06/30/1964 (Tue) (06/30/1964 (Tue))07
"Blood, Sea and Tears"07/07/1964 (Tue) (07/07/1964 (Tue))08

Dr. William Whitehead talks about the evolution of blood. The function of blood is an extension of the function of sea water in the simpler marine creatures. The salt water of prehistoric seas flows through all our bodies. In a sense, our blood is packaged sea water, and our tears, of course, are salty.[33][34]
"Cartography"; alternate title: "The Vanishing Point"07/14/1964 (Tue) (07/14/1964 (Tue))09

Host and writer Lister Sinclair talks about map projection, and the problems of taking a spherical object, the earth, and representing it in two dimensional form. Many maps, both old and new, are used to show how the science of map-making has gradually developed. Sinclair also talks about projection, or perspective, in art.[35]
"The World of Water"07/21/1964 (Tue) (07/21/1964 (Tue))10
"The Way the Ball Bounces"07/28/1964 (Tue) (07/28/1964 (Tue))repeat
"Immunology"08/04/1964 (Tue) (08/04/1964 (Tue))11

Season 5: 1965[edit]

  • Sundays at 5:00 pm
  • Length 30 minutes
Title Broadcast date Episode
"Good and Evil"01/03/1965 (Sun) (01/03/1965 (Sun))01
"Viruses"01/10/1965 (Sun) (01/10/1965 (Sun))02
"Survival"01/17/1965 (Sun) (01/17/1965 (Sun))03

The problem of survival in extreme climatic conditions is examined by Dr. William Whitehead.[36]
"Eureka!"01/24/1965 (Sun) (01/24/1965 (Sun))04

Discussion and demonstration of "accidental" scientific discoveries.[37]
"Flight"01/31/1965 (Sun) (01/31/1965 (Sun))05

Lister Sinclair looks at the artificial flight techniques of man and some of the principles of flying used by other species.[38]
"The Quaking Earth"02/07/1965 (Sun) (02/07/1965 (Sun))06
"Pain"02/21/1965 (Sun) (02/21/1965 (Sun))07
"Lies, Damn Lies and Statistics"02/28/1965 (Sun) (02/28/1965 (Sun))08

Professors Patterson Hume and Donald Ivey dispute Mark Twain's claim that: "There are lies, damn lies and statistics"; or in other words, "you can prove anything with statistics."[39][40]
"Einstein, Man & Mathematician"03/07/1965 (Sun) (03/07/1965 (Sun))repeat

Dr. Jacob Bronowski and Lister Sinclair examine the personality and the achievement of Albert Einstein, one of the greatest scientists in history.[39] (repeat from 05/05/1964)
"Photography"03/14/1965 (Sun) (03/14/1965 (Sun))09

Dr. Walter Clark of the Eastman-Kodak Research Laboratory, and host Lester Sinclair explain what happens after you push the button of your camera.[41]
"Bird Strikes on Aircraft"03/21/1965 (Sun) (03/21/1965 (Sun))10

At one time, collisions between aircraft and birds usually hurt only the birds. Now, with aircraft flying at supersonic speeds, the impact of collisions is greater. And birds ingested into the engines have caused a number of crashes. The Nature of Things looks at what is being done to eliminate bird strikes on aircraft.[42]
"The Pacemakers"03/28/1965 (Sun) (03/28/1965 (Sun))11

For the first time ever on television, part of the remarkable "pacemaker" heart operation is shown being performed at the Toronto General Hospital.[43]

Season 6: 1965–1966[edit]

Title Broadcast date Episode
"Animals and Man"10/03/1965 (Sun) (10/03/1965 (Sun))01

A series studying the animal kingdom, and man's place in it, through comparisons of anatomy, function, and behavior.[44]
"Animals on Land"10/10/1965 (Sun) (10/10/1965 (Sun))02

How animals get from place to place, including burrowing, crawling, climbing trees, running, and jumping.
"Animals In The Water"10/17/1965 (Sun) (10/17/1965 (Sun))03

A study of fish, crocodiles, seals and whales.[45]
"Animal Adaptation"10/24/1965 (Sun) (10/24/1965 (Sun))04

A look at how animals have developed special means of coping with the environments – the long neck of the giraffe, the coat of the polar bear.[46]
"Animal Adaptation"10/31/1965 (Sun) (10/31/1965 (Sun))04

A look at the process of natural selection by which animals have developed special means of coping with their environments: the long neck of the giraffe, the coat of the polar bear, the digging claws of the mole.[47]
"Animals and Food"11/07/1965 (Sun) (11/07/1965 (Sun))05

How animals locate, obtain, process and eat food using "anatomical tools": beaks, claws etc.[48]
"Animals as Engineers"11/14/1965 (Sun) (11/14/1965 (Sun))06

Animals modify their environments in many ways: by building nests, damming streams, by breaking down forests.[49]
"Animals as Engineers"11/21/1965 (Sun) (11/21/1965 (Sun))06

Program shows how animals modify their environments in many ways; by building nests, damming streams, and by breaking down forests.[50]
"Animal Hands and Tools"11/28/1965 (Sun) (11/28/1965 (Sun))07

Man is known as the "toolmaker", although certain other animals do use tools.
"Animal Vision and Smell"12/05/1965 (Sun) (12/05/1965 (Sun))08

Different combinations of the senses are dominant in the activities of different animals: vision and smell in insects, smell and hearing in most mammals, vision and touch in the higher primates, including man.[51]
"Animal Territory and Aggression"12/12/1965 (Sun) (12/12/1965 (Sun))09

A look at the various ways animals and man defend their homes and their young.[52][53]
"Animal Social Behavior"12/19/1965 (Sun) (12/19/1965 (Sun))10

(Placeholder)[54]
"(Placeholder)"12/26/1965 (Sun) (12/26/1965 (Sun))11
"Animal Learning"01/02/1966 (Sun) (01/02/1966 (Sun))12

How much of animal behavior is inherent, and how much is learned?[55]
"(Placeholder)"01/09/1966 (Sun) (01/09/1966 (Sun))13
"(Placeholder)"01/16/1966 (Sun) (01/16/1966 (Sun))14
"Man and Animals"01/23/1966 (Sun) (01/23/1966 (Sun))15

Man, the animal species, as he might be described by an objective zoologist from another planet: what is he, his anatomy, his reproduction, his behavior and his ecology. A summary of the entire series.[56]

Season 7: 1966[edit]

  • Mondays at 7:30 pm
  • Length 30 minutes
Title Broadcast date Episode
"The Sun"06/20/1966 (Mon) (06/20/1966 (Mon))1

The Sun and sun-worship through the ages.[57]
"Natural History of the Niagara Gorge"; alternate title: "Natural History of Niagara"06/27/1966 (Mon) (06/27/1966 (Mon))2
"Air and Water Pollution"07/04/1966 (Mon) (07/04/1966 (Mon))3
"The Battle Against Biting Insects"; alternate title: "The Itch to Kill"07/11/1966 (Mon) (07/11/1966 (Mon))4

A look at some of the sophisticated methods of insect pest control: unbalancing the insects' nutrition, killing them by ultrasonic or other shock waves, sterilizing the males through ionizing radiation or light flashes; drowning the larvae in traps, or interfering with mating and egg-laying by light, colour or electricity.[58][59]
"Air Conditioning – Natural and Man-Made"; alternate title: "Play It Cool"07/18/1966 (Mon) (07/18/1966 (Mon))5
"The Physics of Sailing"; alternate title: "The Science of Sailing"07/25/1966 (Mon) (07/25/1966 (Mon))6
"Epidemics"08/01/1966 (Mon) (08/01/1966 (Mon))7
"Summer Storms"08/08/1966 (Mon) (08/08/1966 (Mon))8

Meteorologists from McGill University explain the large-scale aspects of weather, with a focus on storms.[60]
"Fishing and the Splake"08/15/1966 (Mon) (08/15/1966 (Mon))9

A program about fish, fishermen, and scientists. The splake is a cross breed fish between the speckled and the lake trout.[61]
"The Value of our Parks"; alternate title: "Vanishing Wilderness"08/22/1966 (Mon) (08/22/1966 (Mon))10
"Forest and Fires"08/29/1966 (Mon) (08/29/1966 (Mon))11
"Galapagos: Darwin"09/04/1966 (Sun) (09/04/1966 (Sun))special

First episode of a five-part series on the Galapagos islands. This episode looks at the life and work of Charles Darwin, with emphasis on his historic five-year voyage as resident naturalist aboard the ship Beagle, his stopover at the Galapagos, and his lifetime spent evaluating the results of the trip.[62][63]
"Water on the Level"09/05/1966 (Mon) (09/05/1966 (Mon))12
"Galapagos: The Islands"09/11/1966 (Sun) (09/11/1966 (Sun))special
"Galapagos: New Beings"09/18/1966 (Sun) (09/18/1966 (Sun))special
"Galapagos: Ways of Survival"09/25/1966 (Sun) (09/25/1966 (Sun))special
"Galapagos: Living Laboratory"10/02/1966 (Sun) (10/02/1966 (Sun))special

This final program in the series looks at some of the endangered species in the Galapagos islands, and at the impact of human settlement on the native creatures. The Galapagos are a living laboratory of incalculable value for the study of evolution.[64]

1967 Canadian Wildlife Special[edit]

  • Thursdays at 10:30 pm
  • Length 30 minutes
Title Broadcast date Episode
"Canadian Wildlife: Retreat to the Rockies"05/11/1967 (Thu) (05/11/1967 (Thu))Special

"Retreat to the Rockies" with an especial look at bighorn sheep.[65]
"Canadian Wildlife: A Celebration of Swans"05/18/1967 (Thu) (05/18/1967 (Thu))Special

A study of the rare and beautiful trumpeter swan, which was nearly extinct but has now returned to a reasonably healthy population of about 2,000 through efforts of federal and provincial conservation agencies.[66][67]
"Canadian Wildlife: Arctic Summer"05/25/1967 (Thu) (05/25/1967 (Thu))Special

The authentic sights and sounds of wildlife activity in the Arctic during the summer. Animals seen include polar bears and seals.[68]
"Canadian Wildlife: Wild Alberta"06/01/1967 (Thu) (06/01/1967 (Thu))Special

Wildlife in Alberta is the subject of tonight's episode. John Livingston narrates this final program in the special, four-part Centennial series about Canadian wildlife.[69][70]

Season 9: 1968–1969[edit]

  • Thursdays at 10:30 pm
  • Length 30 minutes




Title Broadcast date Episode
"Thomas Edison"09/26/1968 (Thu) (09/26/1968 (Thu))1

First in a new series of 13 programs, "Machines and Man", focusing on the technological explosion and its impact on our fast-changing society. Thomas Edison wasn't merely a lone inventive genius; he also invented the modern research team that makes possible the technology shaping our world.[71][72]
"Human Engineering"10/03/1968 (Thu) (10/03/1968 (Thu))2

The program ranges from heart operations to space flights.[73]
"Materials"10/10/1968 (Thu) (10/10/1968 (Thu))3

A review of the history of man's oldest materials: wood, stone, iron, bronze and glass. An examination of modern materials and design.[74]
"Structures"11/07/1968 (Thu) (11/07/1968 (Thu))4

A study of structures that defy gravity – Roman aqueducts; Milan's Gothic cathedral; and cantilever and suspension bridges.[75]
"Communications"11/14/1968 (Thu) (11/14/1968 (Thu))5

Study of the problems of communications, with a look at the uses of speech, code, telegraph, TV, radio and laser.[76]
"Canals and Tunnels"11/21/1968 (Thu) (11/21/1968 (Thu))6

The great engineers of the past – men like de Lesseps of Suez fame and Panama infamy, and Brindley whose canals were the arteries of the Industrial revolution, sacrificed the health and sometimes the lives of themselves and others, in order to build the first great canals and tunnels.[77]
"Central Power"11/28/1968 (Thu) (11/28/1968 (Thu))7

Organization and harnessing of steam, water, nuclear energy, and tides. A look at the power failure that blacked out Eastern North America in November 1965.[78]
"Man and Machines: The Greek Inventor"12/05/1968 (Thu) (12/05/1968 (Thu))8

A look at the development of the five basic mechanical devices: lever, wedge, wheel, pulley and screw, as defined by the Greek inventor, Alexander the Hero.[79][80]
"Land and Water"12/12/1968 (Thu) (12/12/1968 (Thu))9

This program shows how man changes his environment by shaping the land he lives on, reclaiming lakes and rivers. The Netherlands is a prime example of what reclamation can accomplish, and the film shows some of the Dutch people's techniques and accomplishments.[81]
"Man Aloft"12/19/1968 (Thu) (12/19/1968 (Thu))10

A study of old and modern flying machines.[82]
"Portable Power"12/26/1968 (Thu) (12/26/1968 (Thu))11

From muscle power to nuclear reactors.[83]
"Machines and Man: Transportation"01/02/1969 (Thu) (01/02/1969 (Thu))12

Are the problems of urban transportation insurmountable? This program examines the many cures being considered for the hardening of vehicular arteries: faster vehicles, mass transit methods, supersonic subways, bigger and better expressways, air transport, and better control and direction of traffic.[84]
"Machines and Man: Systems Engineering"01/09/1969 (Thu) (01/09/1969 (Thu))13

Last in the 13-part series. A look at engineering in the systems of sailing ships and the U.S. space program.[85]
"Audubon"03/18/1969 (Tue) (03/18/1969 (Tue))special

A study of the life and work of Jean Jacques Audubon, the great painter-naturalist who captured the beauty of American wildlife on canvas.[86]

Season 10: 1969–1970[edit]

Title Broadcast date Episode
"Danger: Man At Work – In the Balance"09/24/1969 (Wed) (09/24/1969 (Wed))01

Part one of a six-part series on pollution. By means of film, interviews and comments by experts, the programs show how we are polluting soil, air and water; what is being done about the problem; and what our chances are for survival. With host John Livingston.[87][88]
"Danger: Man At Work – The Urban Crisis"10/01/1969 (Wed) (10/01/1969 (Wed))02

The ways man has succeeded and failed in duplicating in his cities the checks and balances of the natural environment.[89]
"Danger: Man At Work – Water"10/08/1969 (Wed) (10/08/1969 (Wed))03

The third program in this series about the problem of pollution. Narrator John Livingston shows how water is distributed throughout our environment, how it purifies itself, and how man has maltreated it.[90]
"Danger: Man At Work – Air Pollution"10/15/1969 (Wed) (10/15/1969 (Wed))04

The thin layer of our atmosphere is renewed and kept in balance by two delicate cycles, dependent on living green plants. Pollution is destroying the green things which renew it.[91]
"Danger: Man At Work – Pesticides"10/22/1969 (Wed) (10/22/1969 (Wed))05

This program investigates the long-term effects of pesticides such as DDT.[92]
"Danger: Man At Work – The Global Crisis"10/29/1969 (Wed) (10/29/1969 (Wed))06

The final program in this series presents statements and observation of experts on the extent of pollution, what the future may be, and what can be done to stop pollution of the environment.[93]
"The Ages of Man: A Day in the Life of a G.P."; alternate title: "The Family Doctor"11/05/1969 (Wed) (11/05/1969 (Wed))07

First of ten programs looking at Canada's achievements in medical research in the past decade. Cameras follow a young family physician (a general practitioner) through a busy day with patients at his office and at South Peel Hospital in Toronto. The film is also an examination of the direction medical training and health services are taking in Canada.[94][95]
"The Ages of Man: A Breath of Life"11/12/1969 (Wed) (11/12/1969 (Wed))08

Program about genetic defects that can be inherited. Dr. D. N. Crozier of Toronto's Hospital for Sick Children is a guest.[96]
"The Ages of Man: The Attack on Cancer"11/26/1969 (Wed) (11/26/1969 (Wed))09

This program centres on the exciting research into the effects of drugs on tumors in mice being conducted by the internationally renowned cancer research team at Toronto's Princess Margaret Hospital.[97]
"The Ages of Man: Drugs"12/10/1969 (Wed) (12/10/1969 (Wed))10

A study of how medical researchers are using animals to determine the effect of drugs such as marijuana and LSD, and even liquor, on man.[98][99]
"The Ages of Man: The Cell"12/17/1969 (Wed) (12/17/1969 (Wed))11

This program explains why it is essential to understand the complicated mechanism of the normal cell before we can really understand what happens when cancerous cells run out of control.[100]
"The Ages of Man: Arthritis"12/24/1969 (Wed) (12/24/1969 (Wed))12

One quarter of all Canadians will be affected some time in their lives by arthritis. This program looks at a case of rheumatoid, the drug treatments available, and some of the therapeutic aids to assist a person suffering from the disease.[101]
"The Ages of Man: Decade Science Review"; alternate title: "Science Decade"12/31/1969 (Wed) (12/31/1969 (Wed))13

This program is a brief review of the main achievements of science over the past ten years, and attempts to anticipate some of the advancements which may be expected in the seventies.[102]
"The Ages of Man: Heart Disease"01/07/1970 (Wed) (01/07/1970 (Wed))14

A look at the coronary thrombosis which kills three out of ten adults; heart research in Canada.[103]
"The Ages of Man: Transplants"01/15/1970 (Thu) (01/15/1970 (Thu))15

History and research in the field of organ transplants.[104]
"The Ages of Man: A Definition of Death"01/22/1970 (Thu) (01/22/1970 (Thu))16

When is a man dead? Canadian physicians discuss the medical, ethical and legal questions involved with death, organ transplants and maintaining physical life after the death of the brain. (Last of the series).[105]
"Wild Africa: As It Was"02/25/1970 (Wed) (02/25/1970 (Wed))special

The first of two programs depicting what remains of Africa's wildlife. This special features wild animals as they are protected and encouraged in Africa's national parks, including Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda, the Maasai Amboseli Game Reserve, Kenya, the Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area and Tanzania's Serengeti National Park. Film segments include a female cheetah tracking down her antelope prey; never-before-filmed scenes of the Egyptian vulture using rocks to break open other birds' eggs; and the daytime routine of a lion family.[106]
"A Sense of Time (Part 1)"03/19/1970 (Thu) (03/19/1970 (Thu))17

First in a three-part series visiting some of Canada's 700 museums in an attempt to show how people of all ages use them for self-discovery, a sense of communication with the past and a greater awareness of what has shaped today's world.[107]
"Wild Africa: Something New"03/25/1970 (Wed) (03/25/1970 (Wed))special

Part two of a two-part special on Wild Africa. Today, wild Africa is in peril. Mushrooming human populations demand more and more of the ancient, easily violated landscape. Wild animals are on the retreat. Their last refuge is the magnificent system of national park and natural preserves. It is here that ecologists have established their field laboratories, to study the interrelationships of flora and fauna.[108]
"A Sense of Time (Part 2)"03/26/1970 (Thu) (03/26/1970 (Thu))18

Second in a series of three programs on Canada's museums. This program presents views from adults – those who feel that the past has no relevance to their lives, and others who find themselves culturally enriched by the past. Includes a visit to the Royal Ontario Museum.[109][110]
"A Sense of Time (Part 3)"04/02/1970 (Thu) (04/02/1970 (Thu))19

A look "backstage" at the Ontario Science Center, the Royal Ontario Museum and Old Fort Henry.[111]
"Oceanography"05/14/1970 (Thu) (05/14/1970 (Thu))20

Recent advances in oceanography.[112]
"Continental Drift"05/21/1970 (Thu) (05/21/1970 (Thu))21

The theory that the Earth's continents are moving is examined.[113]
"Sense Substitution"05/28/1970 (Thu) (05/28/1970 (Thu))22

Research on new electronics and mechanical devices to help the blind and deaf realize true sensory perception.[114]
"Physical Sciences: Stellar Evolution"06/04/1970 (Thu) (06/04/1970 (Thu))23

The latest observations of astronomers have turned up new kinds of stars; mysterious emanations from deep in space called pulsars and quasars.[115]
"Physical Sciences: Making Waves"06/11/1970 (Thu) (06/11/1970 (Thu))24

Research into the physics of sound and hearing has caused increasing alarm among scientists and physicians about the effects of high noise levels upon people, and the destructive psychological and physical effects of constant noise pollution.[116]
"Physical Sciences: Energy Conversion"06/18/1970 (Thu) (06/18/1970 (Thu))25

The physics of energy and the problem of producing large quantities of energy with little pollution form the basis of this program.[117]
"Physical Sciences: Laser"06/25/1970 (Thu) (06/25/1970 (Thu))26

The qualities of laser and normal light are contrasted. Final program in the series.[118][119]

Season 11: 1970–1971[edit]

Title Broadcast date Episode
"The Last Stand: Western Mountain Parks"11/02/1970 (Mon) (11/02/1970 (Mon))01

The first in a four-part series entitled The Last Stand. The series looks at a variety of areas in the world set aside as specially protected areas of wilderness and natural wildlife. The first program is about western mountain parks and the work being done by biologists and scientists to save mountain wildlife.[120][121]
"The Last Stand: The Everglades of Florida"11/09/1970 (Mon) (11/09/1970 (Mon))02

The Everglades, unique in the world, are dependent entirely on water. But the beautiful birds and animals in the park are threatened by land development and a new airport, whose drainage policies are drying up the area.[122]
"The Last Stand: Point Pelee"11/16/1970 (Mon) (11/16/1970 (Mon))03

The third in a four-part series entitled "The Last Stand." Point Pelee is a tiny peninsula in southwestern Ontario, jutting into Lake Erie, which contains a fresh water marsh full of wildlife of all kinds. It is also the last stronghold of the southern deciduous forest in Canada and contains southern species of plants and animals not found anywhere else in the country.[123]
"The Last Stand: The Southwestern Desert"11/23/1970 (Mon) (11/23/1970 (Mon))04

The last in a four-part series entitled The Last Stand. This program looks at the Sonoran Desert in the U.S. Southwest and in Mexico. It contains an enormous variety of animal life and represents adaptation by both plant and animal life to a harsh environment where competition is keen and only the most successful can survive.[124]
"A Sense of Time: The Age of the Universe"12/07/1970 (Mon) (12/07/1970 (Mon))05

The first in a three-part series entitled "A Sense of Time". This episode examines past and present ideas on the questions of how old is the universe.[125][126]
"A Sense of Time: The Age of the Earth"12/14/1970 (Mon) (12/14/1970 (Mon))06

This program focuses on a new geophysical concept of our planet.[127]
"A Sense of Time: The Age of Man"12/21/1970 (Mon) (12/21/1970 (Mon))07

Planet Earth has supported life for some three billion years; but Man, characterized by his powers of thought and other intelligent faculties, has shown the greatest development during his 500,000-years existence. Can he assume his role of responsibility to protect his life-giving biosphere?[128]
"A Celebration of Swans"12/28/1970 (Mon) (12/28/1970 (Mon))repeat

Life cycle of a pair of rare trumpeter swans.[129]
"A Breath of Life"01/25/1971 (Mon) (01/25/1971 (Mon))repeat

Every year, over 12,000 Canadians are born with serious inherited defects. This program focuses on treatment of one young victim of cystic fibrosis.[130][131]
"The Great Lakes (Part I)"02/01/1971 (Mon) (02/01/1971 (Mon))08

Sociologists tell us that the Great Lakes are the basis for the civilization around them. If the lakes fail, so will we. The program explores the concept that we must cease to think of land and water as separate worlds, and instead treat them as a unity with an international plan for management.[132]
"The Great Lakes (Conclusion)"02/08/1971 (Mon) (02/08/1971 (Mon))09

Immediate implementation of pollution control in our Great Lakes is urgently needed if we are to preserve our most vital waterway. But what are the implications of such action?[133]
"Population Problems: Everybody's Baby (Part I)"02/15/1971 (Mon) (02/15/1971 (Mon))10

An exploration of the most difficult and serious issue threatening mankind today, the population crisis.[134]
"Population Problems: Tomorrow's Child"03/01/1971 (Mon) (03/01/1971 (Mon))11

Featuring a national opinion poll on public attitudes in Canada towards population growth.[135]
"The Living Arctic"03/03/1971 (Wed) (03/03/1971 (Wed))special

A two hour documentary on the Canadian North, its majestic wildlife and its increasing exploitation by man for natural resources.[136]
"Psychiatry: Who Help Themselves"03/15/1971 (Mon) (03/15/1971 (Mon))12

Dealing with the McGill University Settlement Mental Health Unit project in Montreal.[137]
"Psychiatry: Heavy Night"03/22/1971 (Mon) (03/22/1971 (Mon))13

Second in a series on the development and potential of psychiatry for the masses, focusing on informal youth clinics established in a low-income area of Montreal.[138]
"Psychiatry: Street Fighting Mad"03/29/1971 (Mon) (03/29/1971 (Mon))14

A visit to Montreal's Allan Memorial Institute, where a disturbed teenager responds to treatment.[139]
"Psychiatry: Human Potential"04/05/1971 (Mon) (04/05/1971 (Mon))15

A look at Vancouver-area encounter groups.[140]

Season 12: 1971–1972[edit]

Title Broadcast date Episode
"Banting, Best and Insulin"10/04/1971 (Mon) (10/04/1971 (Mon))01

Season opener: The Nature of Things looks at the discovery of insulin by Dr. Frederick Banting and Dr. Charles Best and deals with the current Canadian research into diabetes.[141][142]
"Cancer in Canada"10/11/1971 (Mon) (10/11/1971 (Mon))02

Chances of recovery by a cancer patient in Canada are examined. Guests: Dr. James Till, Toronto's Princess Margaret Hospital, and Dr. Robert Taylor of the National Cancer Institute.[143]
"Population: Everybody's Baby"10/18/1971 (Mon) (10/18/1971 (Mon))repeat

A visual exploration of the most difficult and serious issue threatening mankind today: the population crisis.[144]
"Parkinsonism"10/25/1971 (Mon) (10/25/1971 (Mon))03

A look at research which may bring hope to sufferers of a crippling disorder that affects those on the older side of the generation gap. Guests include Dr. Oleh Hornykiewicz, a pioneer in the discovery of the drug L-DOPA.[145]
"The Rocky Mountains"11/01/1971 (Mon) (11/01/1971 (Mon))repeat

The beautiful, vast tracts of land in the western mountain parks of the west coast and the Rocky Mountains are gradually being destroyed by camp sites, roads and towns. As they are opened their animal life gradually disappears.[146]
"The Last Stand: The Everglades of Florida"11/15/1971 (Mon) (11/15/1971 (Mon))repeat

An almost unique wildlife reserve is threatened by land developments and drainage policies.[147]
"The Last Stand: Point Pelee"11/22/1971 (Mon) (11/22/1971 (Mon))repeat

Visit to Canada's last stronghold of the southern deciduous forest, a freshwater haven teeming with wildlife. But will it last?[148]
"The Living Arctic"11/29/1971 (Mon) (11/29/1971 (Mon))repeat

The Nature of Things presents the first part of its highly acclaimed White Paper special on the vast Arctic regions of Canada.[149]
"The Last Stand: The Southwestern Desert"12/06/1971 (Mon) (12/06/1971 (Mon))repeat

Last in a four-part series visits the U.S. Sonoran Desert, a prime example of plant and animal adaptation to a dry, harsh environment, where competition is keen and only the hardiest survive.[150]
"The Fur Trade"; alternate title: "The Skin Trade"12/13/1971 (Mon) (12/13/1971 (Mon))04

A look at the endangered species of animals used in the fur trade, focusing on the Canadian market.[151]
"Population: Everybody's Baby"12/20/1971 (Mon) (12/20/1971 (Mon))repeat

Overpopulation and how it developed.[152]
"The Harp Seal"; alternate title: "The Ice Lovers"01/03/1972 (Mon) (01/03/1972 (Mon))05

The life history of the seal, currently the object of the great spring seal hunt; the physiology and behavior of this unusual Arctic animal, plus an examination of its 8,000-mile migration from Hudson Strait to the Gulf of St. Lawrence and back. Also a look at the seal's unique adaptation for deep diving, currently under study by biologists at the University of Guelph in Ontario.[153]
"Grouse Country"01/10/1972 (Mon) (01/10/1972 (Mon))06

The world of the colorful bird family admired by hunters and birdwatchers alike.[154]
"The Polar Bear"01/17/1972 (Mon) (01/17/1972 (Mon))07

Pictorial life history of the Arctic animals throughout the seasons.[155]
"Lobsters and the Sea"01/24/1972 (Mon) (01/24/1972 (Mon))08

A glimpse into the world of an unusual and amusing ocean inhabitant.[156]
"Vanishing Peoples: Yanomami"01/31/1972 (Mon) (01/31/1972 (Mon))09

Documentary look at the Yanomami, a fast-vanishing Indian tribe inhabiting the tropical rainforest of the Upper Orinoco River in southeastern Venezuela and Northern Brazil.[157]
"Insulin (repeat from 10/04/1971)"04/24/1972 (Mon) (04/24/1972 (Mon))repeat
"Cancer in Canada"05/01/1972 (Mon) (05/01/1972 (Mon))repeat

Canada is recognized as a world leader in cancer research, with its pioneer work in radiation therapy, the cobalt bomb and chemotherapy. Tonight's program examines the chances for recovery a cancer patient now has in Canada.[158]
"Parkinson's Disease"05/08/1972 (Mon) (05/08/1972 (Mon))repeat

Medical science does not yet know the exact causes of this disease but modern research into this crippling incapacitator of the middle-aged has resulted in improved treatment. This program offers a look at the disease and the treatment, with surgery and drugs, notably L-Dopa, giving many sufferers new hope.[159]
"The Blue Holes of Andros"05/15/1972 (Mon) (05/15/1972 (Mon))10

A visit to a deep network of underwater caves found offshore from the island of Andros, with Dr. George Benjamin, a Canadian research chemist and the world's foremost authority on the Bahamas' "blue holes" (underwater caves).[160][161][162]

Season 13: 1972–1973[edit]


Title Broadcast date Episode
"Vanishing Peoples: Lacandons, The Mayas of Mexico"11/06/1972 (Mon) (11/06/1972 (Mon))01

Season opener: The Lacandons, the last surviving descendants of the Mayas, live in the rain forest of southern Mexico and cling to ancient beliefs and traditions. Narration is by Mia Anderson and the voice of Chan K'in is by Chief Dan George.[163]
"The Sexes, part 1 of 2"11/20/1972 (Mon) (11/20/1972 (Mon))02

Examines male and female roles in society and presents a scientific study of the known biological facts about sex differences in humans.[164]
"The Sexes, part 2 of 2"11/27/1972 (Mon) (11/27/1972 (Mon))03

This program looks at hormonal changes during puberty, and the socially originated attitudes leading to differences between the sexes.[165]
"Acupuncture"12/04/1972 (Mon) (12/04/1972 (Mon))04

An exploration of the traditional art of healing as practiced in China.[166]
"The Polar Bear"01/08/1973 (Mon) (01/08/1973 (Mon))repeat

The first in a four-part series on Canadian wildlife looks at the polar bear. A pictorial "life history" seen through the seasons; also, the problems of Churchill, Manitoba, a booming town right in the path of a polar bear migration route.[167]
"Grouse Country"01/15/1973 (Mon) (01/15/1973 (Mon))repeat

Mating rituals of the rock and willow ptarmigan; the blue, ruffed and spruce grouse and the greater prairie chicken; from the offshore islands of Newfoundland to the Alberta foothills.[168]
"Lobsters and the Sea"01/22/1973 (Mon) (01/22/1973 (Mon))repeat

A fascinating glimpse into the world of the lobster; an unusual, amusing inhabitant of our oceans and seas.[169]
"Ice Lovers"01/29/1973 (Mon) (01/29/1973 (Mon))repeat

A life history of the harp seal, examining the behavior and physiology of this unique Arctic mammal; plus a look at its unusual 800-mile migration each year from Hudson Strait to the Gulf of St. Lawrence.[170]
"The Blue Holes of Andros"02/13/1973 (Tue) (02/13/1973 (Tue))repeat

An underwater tour of the mysterious world of the Andros Islands, in the Bahamas, where immense underwater caves have recently been discovered.[171]
"Think Before You Eat"03/05/1973 (Mon) (03/05/1973 (Mon))05

A look at the eating habits of Canadians; food and nutrition, the so-called "Well-balanced diet" and problems of overeating are analyzed in this examination of the dangers of abundance.[172]
"Stockholm '72: Politics For Survival"03/12/1973 (Mon) (03/12/1973 (Mon))06

A retrospective look at the summer 1972 World Conference on the Human Environment.[173]
"Cities for People"03/19/1973 (Mon) (03/19/1973 (Mon))07

The Nature of Things presents Cities Are For People, originally scheduled for February 19. It deals with new thinking in urban planning to make cities more livable.[174]
"Migration: Animals in Cycle"03/26/1973 (Mon) (03/26/1973 (Mon))08

A look at the migratory habits of birds and animals, with recent findings in animal studies reinforced with fascinating film footage of many species in their natural habitats.[175]
"Old Enough"04/02/1973 (Mon) (04/02/1973 (Mon))09

This half-hour film depicts obvious absurdities, in a subjective interpretation of The Limits to Growth, a 1970 MIT computer study forecasting economic, social and political collapse by no later than 2020.[176]
"Recycling: The Garbage Ouroboros"04/09/1973 (Mon) (04/09/1973 (Mon))10

A comprehensive examination of the form of pollution fast becoming public enemy number one in North America: garbage.[177]
"Acupuncture"04/16/1973 (Mon) (04/16/1973 (Mon))repeat

This ancient and traditional art of healing has been widely practised in China for more than 5,000 years. Its recent rebirth as a successful treatment for many diseases, notably asthma, ulcers, hepatitis, depression, and some forms of deafness and paraplegia, are explored in this program.[178]
"Vanishing Peoples: Yanomami"05/07/1973 (Mon) (05/07/1973 (Mon))repeat

A documentary on the Yanomami of South America, known as The Fierce People, a fast-vanishing tribe in the isolated, tropical rain-forest of the Upper Orinoco River in Venezuela and Brazil.[179]

Season 14: 1973–1974[edit]

  • Mondays at 10:00 pm
  • Length 30 minutes


Title Broadcast date Episode
"Puffins, Predators and Pirates"11/26/1973 (Mon) (11/26/1973 (Mon))01

Season Premier: A biological study which reveals the plight of one of the world's last puffin colonies on Great Island off the eastern coast of Newfoundland.[180]
"The Club of Rome"12/03/1973 (Mon) (12/03/1973 (Mon))02

Our world is littered with the ruins of civilizations which have collapsed. A group of thinkers called The Club of Rome, thinks that we may be on the verge of chaos – social and political unrest, pollution, food and energy shortages – which could eventually reduce our civilization to ruins. The group is trying to find answers which will prevent our society from ruining itself.[181]
"Ellesmere Land"12/10/1973 (Mon) (12/10/1973 (Mon))03

Summer comes to the Fosheim Peninsula of Ellesmere Island in Canada's vast high Arctic: giant furry musk oxen, jaegers cruising the valley skies, fox eating the eggs of a black bellied plover, droves of Arctic hares.[182]
"Anybody's Child"12/17/1973 (Mon) (12/17/1973 (Mon))04

Michael is one of four youngsters living in a house. Each child suffers from severe emotional disturbances or mental illness, and in some cases, had been written off by society as untreatable. As an alternative to institutional treatment they are being brought up in a warm family environment by two young child care workers.[183]
"Grouse Country"12/24/1973 (Mon) (12/24/1973 (Mon))repeat

A look at grouse, one of the most plentiful birds in Canada; highly conspicuous, colorful and greatly admired by hunters and birdwatchers alike.[184]
"Vanishing Peoples: Lacandons"12/31/1973 (Mon) (12/31/1973 (Mon))repeat

This special focuses on the Lacandons, direct descendants of the great Mayan civilizations. Isolated from modern society, the Lacandons have been able to preserve the Mayan philosophies which help them solve the problems of survival and fulfillment in the jungle.[185]
"A Comet's Tale"01/07/1974 (Mon) (01/07/1974 (Mon))05

Czech astronomer Dr. Luboš Kohoutek, discoverer of the current heavenly phenomenon Comet Kohoutek 1973 f, is among the participants in this full-hour special. Roy Bonisteel is host of the program which examines comets from a scientific viewpoint, and heavenly signs and portents of doom from psychological and historical perspectives.[186]
"The First Inch"01/14/1974 (Mon) (01/14/1974 (Mon))06

What goes on in the very top layer of soil is often too small to see with the naked eye. When photographed under a microscope, that first inch of soil reveals itself to be one of the most vital of the life cycles affecting man. The tiny, invisible hordes of bacteria, plant eaters, parasites and predators are the subject of this program.[187]
"The Serious Business of Play"01/21/1974 (Mon) (01/21/1974 (Mon))07

Play is nature's method of learning about environment and about life for the young. This episode explores our world of play and its importance for survival.[188]
"Out of the Mouths of Babes"01/28/1974 (Mon) (01/28/1974 (Mon))08

Little children learn languages, especially their own, with astonishing ease. Why this is so is the subject of this film.[189]
"The Joy of Effort"02/04/1974 (Mon) (02/04/1974 (Mon))09

How the laws of physics are being applied to athletic endeavors, and coaches being taught how to use science rather than just "common sense" to help athletes get the most out of their bodies.[190]
"The Cree of Paint Hills"03/24/1974 (Sun) (03/24/1974 (Sun))special

A special documentary of the Cree inhabitants of Paint Hills, on the eastern shore of James Bay in Quebec.[191]
"James Bay"03/28/1974 (Thu) (03/28/1974 (Thu))special

A 200-mile voyage up the La Grande River, on the east coast of James Bay, showing the Indian settlement at Fort George.[192]

Season 15: 1974[edit]


Title Broadcast date Episode
"The Mendi"10/08/1974 (Tue) (10/08/1974 (Tue))Special

It was not until 1930 that the outside world knew that there were people living in the highlands of Papua, New Guinea. In 1950 the first contact was made with a group of 55,000 Mendi, part of a million inhabitants of the New Guinea highlands, formerly not known to exist. The Australians have since built an airstrip, a hospital, schools, a hotel and other permanent buildings there, but the Mendi have kept their culture intact. A CBC film crew directed by Nancy Archibald has recorded some of the ancient culture and lifestyle of the Mendi and the results are presented in this special one-hour documentary.[193]
"And God Created Great Whales"10/09/1974 (Wed) (10/09/1974 (Wed))01

A documentary showing the behaviour of killer whales in the wild, in the waters off Vancouver Island.[194]
"Children's Hospital"10/23/1974 (Wed) (10/23/1974 (Wed))02

Story of a child's stay in Toronto's Hospital for Sick Children.[195][196]
"The Heimaey Eruption: Iceland 1973"10/30/1974 (Wed) (10/30/1974 (Wed))03

A film on the volcanic eruption off the south coast of Iceland in 1973.[197][198]
"Traveller From An Antique Land"11/06/1974 (Wed) (11/06/1974 (Wed))04

A scientific autopsy is carried out on an Egyptian mummy.[199]
"Puffins, Predators and Pirates"11/13/1974 (Wed) (11/13/1974 (Wed))repeat

Documentary about the plight of puffins in Newfoundland.[200]
"Mind and Hand"11/20/1974 (Wed) (11/20/1974 (Wed))05

What happens when a person makes a voluntary movement? Some say the human behavior is involuntary and is based on past experience. The whole question is explored on The Nature of Things.[201]
"Ellesmere Land"11/27/1974 (Wed) (11/27/1974 (Wed))repeat

A documentary about summertime life on Fosheim Peninsula in Canada's Arctic.[202]
"Frogs, Snakes and Turtles"12/04/1974 (Wed) (12/04/1974 (Wed))06

Frogs, snakes and turtles play vital roles as janitors and regulators of the environment.[203]
"Discovery on Charlton Island"12/11/1974 (Wed) (12/11/1974 (Wed))07

An archeological party discovers evidence that an old Hudson's Bay site at the foot of James Bay had been burned down by the French in the 17th century.[204]
"The First Inch"12/18/1974 (Wed) (12/18/1974 (Wed))repeat

What goes on in the very top layer of the Earth's soil is often too small to see with the naked eye. When photographed under a microscope, that first inch of soil reveals itself to be one of the most vital of the life cycles affecting man.[205]

Season 16: 1975[edit]


Title Broadcast date Episode
"Out of the Mouths of Babes (Part 1 of 2)"10/22/1975 (Wed) (10/22/1975 (Wed))01

Season Debut: A two-part film about the ease in which little children learn languages.[206][207]
"Ears to Hear"10/29/1975 (Wed) (10/29/1975 (Wed))02

Severely deaf children learn to speak like normal children with the aid of powerfully sensitive hearing aids and teaching techniques being used by dedicated teachers.[208]
"Sable Island"11/05/1975 (Wed) (11/05/1975 (Wed))03

A look at Sable Island, about 100 miles off Nova Scotia, where the wildlife has had an unusual evolution because it is separated from the mainland.[209]
"Water's Edge (Part 1)"11/12/1975 (Wed) (11/12/1975 (Wed))04

Unique life forms in a pond.[210][211]
"Water's Edge (Part 2)"11/19/1975 (Wed) (11/19/1975 (Wed))05

Visible and microscopic life at the edge of a pond.[212]
"Prairie Grasslands"11/26/1975 (Wed) (11/26/1975 (Wed))06

Documentary on prairie dogs and one colony in particular in South Dakota.[213]
"The Heimaey Eruption"12/03/1975 (Wed) (12/03/1975 (Wed))repeat

A film on the volcanic eruption off the south coast of Iceland in 1973.[214]
"The Arctic Islands: A Matter of Time"12/07/1975 (Sun) (12/07/1975 (Sun))special

An hour-long special capturing the beauty of the varied wildlife of the Arctic and pointing out the slim thread of natural features that determines wildlife survival.[215][216]
"The Differences Are Inherited"12/10/1975 (Wed) (12/10/1975 (Wed))07

The fruit fly is used as the focus for a discussion of mutations, current genetic research and the relationship of this research to some of the problems suffered by humans.[217][218]
"Shelter: A Question of Control"12/17/1975 (Wed) (12/17/1975 (Wed))08

The program shows how psychological experiments support those who believe that community and citizen control over their own environment is essential to the well being of city dwellers.[219][220]
"And God Created Great Whales"12/24/1975 (Wed) (12/24/1975 (Wed))repeat

A half-hour documentary showing the behavior patterns of killer whales.[221]

Season 17: 1976–1977[edit]

  • Wednesdays at 8:00 pm
  • Length 30 minutes
Title Broadcast date Episode
"Noah's Park"12/22/1976 (Wed) (12/22/1976 (Wed))01

Season Debut: The story of an attempt to restore the landscape and wildlife of a section of Israel's Negev desert to their state in biblical times.[222]
"The Invisible Reef"12/29/1976 (Wed) (12/29/1976 (Wed))02

Through the use of micro-photography, viewers are afforded a look at the unique way in which a reef is formed through a complex system of natural recycling.[223][224]
"Newborn"01/05/1977 (Wed) (01/05/1977 (Wed))03

A study of the capabilities that are innate to a newborn baby in the first week after birth.[225][226]
"The Mind's Eye"01/12/1977 (Wed) (01/12/1977 (Wed))04

A look at the work of scientists who are exploring regions of the brain by examining its relationship to the visual system.
"Children of the Buffalo"01/19/1977 (Wed) (01/19/1977 (Wed))05

A study of the Todos tribe of India, their polyandrous marriage rituals and their unusual funeral rites. The Todos spend their lives tending the buffalo and everything they do revolves around this animal.[227]
"The Gabra"01/23/1977 (Mon) (01/23/1977 (Mon))special

The Gabra is a tribe of 24,000 people who live in the harsh terrain on both sides of the Kenya-Ethiopia border. They may be the only non-Muslim, camel raising society left in the world. Their lifestyle is cruel, filled with age-old rituals and beliefs.[228]
"The Last of Life"01/26/1977 (Wed) (01/26/1977 (Wed))06

A look into geriatric medicine and some aspects of research into the biology of aging.[229]
"Sable Island"02/02/1977 (Wed) (02/02/1977 (Wed))repeat

The program focuses on a small island about 100 miles off Nova Scotia, where herds of wild horses live. Because they have been separated from the mainland for so long, the horses of Sable Island are considered a sub-species. The island is the breeding ground of the Ipswich sparrow and the birthplace of the rare grey seal.[230]
"When The Wind Blows"02/09/1977 (Wed) (02/09/1977 (Wed))07

A look at the uses man has made of the wind, from sailboats to windmills to modern turbines for generating electricity.[231][232]
"Funk Island"; alternate title: "The Funks"02/16/1977 (Wed) (02/16/1977 (Wed))08

Shows some of the species of seabirds to be found on Funk Island, situated 40 miles east of Newfoundland, which is a breeding ground of more than one million seabirds, and stresses the need for their protection against man.[233][234][235]

Season 18: 1977–1978[edit]



Title Broadcast date Episode
"The People You Never See"12/14/1977 (Wed) (12/14/1977 (Wed))01

The Nature of Things begins its 18th season with a study of people afflicted with cerebral palsy, showing how some cope with their disability.[236][237]
"The Evolution of Flight[238]"12/21/1977 (Wed) (12/21/1977 (Wed))02
"The Geese of Wascana"12/28/1977 (Wed) (12/28/1977 (Wed))03

Visit to the marshes of Regina where Canada geese spend the winter on open water.[239]
"Radiation: In Sickness and in Health[240]"01/04/1978 (Wed) (01/04/1978 (Wed))04
"Radiation Part II: Nuclear Power[241]"01/11/1978 (Wed) (01/11/1978 (Wed))05

A look at the advantages and dangers of nuclear energy, focusing special attention on the problem of waste disposal.
"The Cry of the Gull"01/18/1978 (Wed) (01/18/1978 (Wed))06

The Cry of the Gull examines the effect of chemical pollutants on Lake Ontario wildlife.[242][243]
"Space Shuttle"01/25/1978 (Wed) (01/25/1978 (Wed))07

A look at the next development in space research: establishing a space colony supporting 10,000 people in an Earth-like environment.[244][245]
"Twins: And Then There Were Two"02/01/1978 (Wed) (02/01/1978 (Wed))08

This is the first of a two-part report which looks at both the scientific and human side of twins. The possibility of telepathy between twins is discussed.[246][247]
"Twins: Matching Genes"02/08/1978 (Wed) (02/08/1978 (Wed))09

Part two of a two-part study of twins and the research being conducted. This program shows how scientists use the phenomenon of twins to discover more about mankind in general, particularly in the field of genetics.[248][249]
"When Men Play Gods"02/22/1978 (Wed) (02/22/1978 (Wed))10

The creation of new organisms using a technique called recombinant DNA.[250][251]
"The Geese of Wascana"03/01/1978 (Wed) (03/01/1978 (Wed))repeat

A look at the Canada geese of Regina's Wascana Park.[252]
"Patterns of Pain / The Gannets of Bonaventure"03/08/1978 (Wed) (03/08/1978 (Wed))11

Two films featured: Patterns of Pain explores the perception of pain in our nervous systems; The Gannets of Bonaventure looks at the largest breeding colony of gannets in North America, on Bonaventure Island; and informs of threats to the colony from pollution and tourist traffic.[253]

Season 19: 1978–1979[edit]

Title Broadcast date Episode
"Roger Tory Peterson: Portrait of a Birdwatcher"09/11/1978 (Mon) (09/11/1978 (Mon))special

Roger Tory Peterson revolutionized the science of ornithology by devising a system of bird identification based on his observation that each bird displays a unique set of markings. This profile follows the artist-naturalist into the fields and marshes of North America and Antarctica as he leads tours and displays some of the photographic techniques he uses for his field guides.[254][255]
"Evolution Update"09/24/1978 (Sun) (09/24/1978 (Sun))01

Season premiere: Anthropologist Richard Leakey discusses his work in Africa, and explains the latest techniques by which scientists measure time and age of subjects.[256][257]
"Clockwork Atom"10/01/1978 (Sun) (10/01/1978 (Sun))02

The phenomenon of man's changing concepts of the world is explored in relation to his desire to measure time more accurately.[258]
"This Will Do For Today"10/08/1978 (Sun) (10/08/1978 (Sun))03

A series of people of varying ages, professions and experiences express their innermost feelings on subjects ranging from dateless Saturday nights to fear of death.[259]
"Island of Monkeys"10/15/1978 (Sun) (10/15/1978 (Sun))04

A study of individual development and group dynamics in a troop of rhesus monkeys in the natural observable environment of Cayo Santiago near Puerto Rico.[260]
"The Dogon"10/29/1978 (Sun) (10/29/1978 (Sun))05

The cliff-dwelling Dogon farmers and their unique culture are studied in their homeland near the Niger River in Mali.[261]
"Toward The Sun"11/05/1978 (Sun) (11/05/1978 (Sun))06

The current efforts in both the United States and Canada to harness the sun as a major resource of heat and power are examined.[262]
"Portrait Of A Market: Sololá"11/12/1978 (Sun) (11/12/1978 (Sun))07

The activities of the economic and social center of Sololá, located on Lake Atitlán in Guatemala, are viewed.[263]
"Sleep (part 1 of 2)"11/26/1978 (Sun) (11/26/1978 (Sun))08

Volunteers undergo an experiment at the Montefiore Sleep Lab in New York which monitors their sleeping-awakening cycles in an attempt to learn more about the body's biological time system.[264]
"Dreams (part 2 of 2)"12/03/1978 (Sun) (12/03/1978 (Sun))09

Analysis of dreams is viewed at several institutions established expressly for that purpose, and those who participate in the experiments are shown as they make notations and give recollections of what they dreamed.[265]
"Charlie"12/17/1978 (Sun) (12/17/1978 (Sun))10

Canadian paleontologist Charlie Sternberg and his work in cataloguing dinosaur fossils in the Albertan Badlands are profiled.[266]
"The Search"12/24/1978 (Sun) (12/24/1978 (Sun))11

The Search follows World Health Organization medical teams on their campaign to vaccinate the against smallpox in Somalia, the world's last location where the disease survives.[267]
"The Cajuns"12/31/1978 (Sun) (12/31/1978 (Sun))12

The descendants of Nova Scotia's Acadians and their lifestyle are profiled at their adopted home, the Bayou Lafourche in southern Louisiana.[268]
"Coming and Going"02/07/1979 (Wed) (02/07/1979 (Wed))special

New ways of dealing with the terminally ill are examined in Coming and Going, a sensitive treatment of a serious problem. With the help of relatives and hospital staff, patients come to terms with their illness.[269][270]

Season 20: 1979–1980[edit]


Title Broadcast date Episode
"Flying Circus of Physics / Immune System / Monarch Butterfly / Contact Lenses"10/24/1979 (Wed) (10/24/1979 (Wed))01

Season Premiere: Dr. David Suzuki visits an unusual professor who conducts a Flying Circus of Physics, reports on the latest immunological efforts to treat severely afflicted children, looks at the life cycle of the monarch butterfly and the many hazards it faces, and examines soft contact lenses made for extended periods of use.[271][272]
"Hypnosis / India's Sacred Cows / Ultra Sound Scanner"10/31/1979 (Wed) (10/31/1979 (Wed))02

Dr. David Suzuki reports on the use of hypnosis as a medical application and the use of ultra-sound waves for X-rays, and presents the film "Sacred Cows," dealing with the importance of domestic cattle to the Indian economy.[273]
"Madagascar: Island of the Moon"11/07/1979 (Wed) (11/07/1979 (Wed))03

The island geographically separated from the rest of the African continent and populated by numerous species of plant and animal life is examined.[274]
"Puppets / One, Two, Three, Zero / New Wave Babies"11/14/1979 (Wed) (11/14/1979 (Wed))04

In Puppets, Elizabeth Crocker at the Izaak Walton Killam Hospital for Children, Halifax, is interviewed about her use of puppets to ease children into their hospital stay. The One, Two, Three, Zero segment examines possible methods of treatment for infertile couples who wish to have children.[275] In New Wave Babies, scientists Dr. Patrick Steptoe and Dr. David Bevie are interviewed about methods used in the "test tube baby" procedure.[276]
"Contact"11/21/1979 (Wed) (11/21/1979 (Wed))05

The techniques for helping autistic children developed by Barry and Suzi Kaufman to aid their own son are examined, as are their applications in a special program being conducted by a York University graduate.[277]
"Deep Diving / Memory: Come to Think of It"11/28/1979 (Wed) (11/28/1979 (Wed))06

David Suzuki goes deep-sea diving to demonstrate the psychological changes divers experience. David also investigates the mysteries of memory – how it is acquired, and how it is lost.[278][279]
"Arctic Oil"12/05/1979 (Wed) (12/05/1979 (Wed))07

North America's last great wilderness area, Lancaster Sound in Canada's high Arctic, is now the site of oil exploration, and a unique environment rich in animal and plant life is threatened. David Suzuki and a film crew from The Nature of Things visited Lancaster Sound to find out what the future holds for this region. The material gathered from that expedition, together with interviews with several of the native peoples and with others directly concerned with what is happening in the Canadian Arctic, are presented in this program.[280]
"Clinical Trials / Folk Medicine / Magnetic Bacteria"12/12/1979 (Wed) (12/12/1979 (Wed))08

Clinical trials, folk medicine and magnetic bacteria are discussed by Dr. David Suzuki.[281]
"Left Brain, Right Brain"12/19/1979 (Wed) (12/19/1979 (Wed))09

The latest techniques used in the field of neurosciences are researched to determine the functions of both halves of the human brain.[282]
"Insects / Oyster Culture / Science Fairs"12/26/1979 (Wed) (12/26/1979 (Wed))10

The survival of insects over thousands of years, the cultivation of oysters in West Africa, and Canadian science fairs on the provincial and national levels are examined by Dr. David Suzuki.[283]
"Memories From Eden"01/02/1980 (Wed) (01/02/1980 (Wed))11

Special environments which zoo officials have created for the welfare of certain animals and the enjoyment of visitors are highlighted.[284]
"The Mendi"01/09/1980 (Wed) (01/09/1980 (Wed))repeat

A Stone Age tribe which left 50,000 members living off the land in Papua, New Guinea is examined.[285][286]
"The Cree of Paint Hills"01/16/1980 (Wed) (01/16/1980 (Wed))repeat

A feature on the Cree Indians of the eastern James Bay region and the threats of modern society to their lifestyle. This is a last minute change from Paul Jacobs and the Nuclear Gang, the feature originally scheduled to appear at this time.[287]
"The Lacandons"01/23/1980 (Wed) (01/23/1980 (Wed))repeat

A vanishing tribe of North American Indians in Mexico which is living according to the religious rites of past centuries is profiled.[288]
"Paul Jacobs and the Nuclear Gang"02/06/1980 (Wed) (02/06/1980 (Wed))12

For more than twenty years a freelance American journalist named Paul Jacobs interviewed people exposed to nuclear fall-out from bomb tests in Nevada in an attempt to establish a link between such exposure and cancer. In this episode Jacobs' investigations are examined.[289]
"Roger Tory Peterson: Portrait of a Birdwatcher"02/13/1980 (Wed) (02/13/1980 (Wed))repeat

The work of Peterson and his intense love of nature are examined in this documentary which shows him at work in his studio and at his Connecticut home.[290]
"Crocodile City / Spanish Galleons / World's Largest Windmill / Cement"02/20/1980 (Wed) (02/20/1980 (Wed))13

This magazine edition includes four segments: a look at Lamanai (Crocodile City), built by the Maya of Belize between 400 and 300 BC, as it was being excavated by David Pendergast of the Royal Ontario Museum, assisted by other specialists and a work-force of direct descendants of the Maya; Spanish Galleons: A look at the recent discovery and exploration of Spanish treasure ships wrecked off the coast of Texas four centuries ago, and techniques used in identifying encrusted objects; World's Largest Windmill: Students and teachers of a Danish Folk School have built a windmill 75 meters high that produces 2,000 kilowatts of electricity, and Cement: A look at the properties of cement.[291]
"High altitude Physiology / The Vision of Galileo / Dust Storms"02/27/1980 (Wed) (02/27/1980 (Wed))14

Technological developments involving man's survival at high altitudes; a look at the life of Galileo, Italian astronomer, mathematician and physicist, including recreation of some of his experiments; and an examination of the global meteorological effects of Sahara dust storms.[292]
"Seal Psychology / Chiricahuas / Violins"03/05/1980 (Wed) (03/05/1980 (Wed))15

Seal Psychology: A study of the ability of seals to navigate and catch fish in waters where it is too dark for the seals to see. Chiricahuas: A look at the Chiricahua mountains and their wildlife in southeast Arizona. Violins: How violins are made, including an interview with a violin maker, and footage of students at the International School of Lute Making in Cremona, Italy.[293]

Season 21: 1980–1981[edit]

  • Wednesdays at 8:00 pm
  • Length 1 hour
Title Broadcast date Episode
"Volcanoes / Hovercraft / Curve Balls / Windshear / Xerography"10/08/1980 (Wed) (10/08/1980 (Wed))01

Season Premiere: Volcanoes: A look at the geological formation and environmental impact of volcanoes, focusing on the 1980 eruptions of Mt. St. Helens in Washington. Hovercraft: New uses for air-cushioned vehicles, including the possible future use of hovercraft over muskeg terrain. Curve Balls: A demonstration of how baseball pitchers throw curve balls, and the effects which a baseball has when it spins through the air. Windshear: Richard Malcolm, a physicist specializing in aircraft safety, discusses the problems created by different types of turbulence and the recent aircraft design changes to ameliorate the problems. Xerography: A presentation of how a photocopier works.[294]
"Cystic Fibrosis / Whooping Crane / Cold-Water Survival"10/15/1980 (Wed) (10/15/1980 (Wed))02

A report on cystic fibrosis, a genetic respiratory ailment that afflicts young people; the International Crane Foundation's work to save endangered species of birds is documented; and hypothermia, which involves the impact of very cold water on the human body, is examined.[295]
"Skin – The Bare Necessity / Manatees / Ludhiana"10/22/1980 (Wed) (10/22/1980 (Wed))03

Three films are featured: Skin – The Bare Necessity, dealing with the human skin; Manatees, concerning a unique vegetarian creature which lives in coastal waters, and Ludhiana, a profile of an Indian city which serves as the home base for 12,000 different business enterprises.[226][296]
"Tar Wars"10/29/1980 (Wed) (10/29/1980 (Wed))04

The geology and relative impact of the Athabasca Tar Sands are examined, along with the problems involved in the extraction of oil from the deeper deposits.[297][298]
"Going Without Gas / Surface Tension / Science Fair"11/05/1980 (Wed) (11/05/1980 (Wed))05

Going Without Gas: A look at recent developments in designing cars that run on fuels other than petroleum, such as methanol, ethanol, electricity, hydrocarbons and hydrogen. Surface Tension: Observing the molecular properties of surface tension and how soap uses these properties to remove grease. Science Fair: A look at the 1979 Metropolitan Toronto Science Fair, featuring the contestants (ages 12-18), the displays, the judging and the awards presentation.[299]
"China Now – Its Roots in the Past (Part 1 of 2)"11/12/1980 (Wed) (11/12/1980 (Wed))06

The lifestyle and culture of modern China are highlighted in a study of the educational system and medical techniques of the country; visits to the seaport of Qingdao and the ancient cities of Hangzhou and Yangzhou are featured.[300]
"China Now – The Four Modernizations (Part 2 of 2)"11/19/1980 (Wed) (11/19/1980 (Wed))07

The professional and recreational activities of the Chinese people are examined in a tour of their homes, factories and parks, as well as the palaces which were formerly the homes of emperors.[301]
"Success Story / Sickle Cell Anemia"11/26/1980 (Wed) (11/26/1980 (Wed))08

A magazine edition: Success Story: a film by nature photographer John Carey about the insect world and the ability of insects to survive hostile forces of man and nature. Sickle Cell Anemia: A look at what is known about the causes of sickle cell anemia, how it affects its victims and what progress is being made to alleviate and cure the condition.[302]
"Freak Waves / Invisible Astronomy / Hildebrand"12/03/1980 (Wed) (12/03/1980 (Wed))09

Freak Waves: A report on work at the Canadian National Research Council into wave formations that can engulf oil rigs or large vessels, even when weather conditions are relatively fair. Invisible Astronomy: Host David Suzuki visits the Algonquin Park Observatory and the Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico as he reports on the use of radio astronomy and the search for extraterrestrial intelligent life. Hildebrand: A visit with chemist and educator Joel Hildebrand of the University of California.[303][304]
"Prenatal Diagnosis / Hearing in Chinchillas"12/10/1980 (Wed) (12/10/1980 (Wed))10

Prenatal Diagnosis: Presents new techniques to examine the fetus while still in the womb to determine its sex and detect possible defects. Hearing in Chinchillas: A look at the similarities between the human ear and the ear of a chinchilla, and a study of how noise can permanently damage hearing in both. Chinchillas are subjected to loud tones and their inner ear membranes are examined for damage in an electron microscope.[305]
"Hypnosis / India's Sacred Cows / Ultra Sound Scanner"12/31/1980 (Wed) (12/31/1980 (Wed))repeat
"AAAS Report / One of the Family / Oyster Culture"01/07/1981 (Wed) (01/07/1981 (Wed))11

AAAS Report: Scientists gathering in Toronto for a meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science are interviewed about the role of the scientific community in the nuclear arms race. One of the Family: A Toronto family whose youngest member was born with cerebral palsy is profiled, focusing on their reactions to his birth and his development with the help of doctors and therapists. Oyster Culture: A look at a Japanese oyster harvesting operation and at oyster farms in Sierra Leone, West Africa, and Sabah, Malaysia.[306]
"Birds' Eggs / Newfoundland Oil / John Polanyi"01/14/1981 (Wed) (01/14/1981 (Wed))12

Birds' Eggs: A look at the many ways that egg shells protect and aid embryonic development of birds. Newfoundland Oil: The technical difficulties and possible environmental and social impact of oil drilling off the coast of Newfoundland are examined. John Polanyi: An interview with the University of Toronto molecular scientist who discusses his work, his influences, the responsibilities of a scientist and the centrality of science in the modern world.[307]
"Poisoned Playgrounds / Charlie"01/28/1981 (Wed) (01/28/1981 (Wed))13

The actions taken by Ontario parents when insecticide spraying at a school proved hazardous to their children's health are examined, and in a repeat showing of the film "Charlie", the work of Canadian paleontologist Charlie Sternberg is highlighted.[308]
"High Altitude Physiology / The Vision of Galileo / Dust Storms"02/04/1981 (Wed) (02/04/1981 (Wed))repeat

The effects of high altitudes on man's physiology, the vision of Galileo, and the causes and results of dust storms are examined.[309]
"The Moving Still"02/11/1981 (Wed) (02/11/1981 (Wed))14

A look at the history of scientific photography from its beginnings in 1837 to the present-day use of high-speed cameras.[310]
"Sri Lanka: Island of Serendib"02/18/1981 (Wed) (02/18/1981 (Wed))15

A documentary on Sri Lanka, its wildlife and culture and the changes taking place as technological development erodes traditional ways of life.[311]
"Seal Psychology / Chiricahuas / Violins"02/25/1981 (Wed) (02/25/1981 (Wed))repeat

Seal psychology, the Chiricahua mountains, and the making of violins are among the topics covered.[312]
"Tar Wars"03/04/1981 (Wed) (03/04/1981 (Wed))repeat

The geology and relative impact of the Athabasca Tar Sands are examined, along with the problems involved in the extraction of oil from the deeper deposits.[298][313]
"Blackfly / Desalination / Memory – Come to think of it / Dr. Karl Illmensee"03/11/1981 (Wed) (03/11/1981 (Wed))16

Blackfly: A look at the life cycle of the blackfly, and its effects in northern Canada and Africa. Desalination: A practical method of desalination using reverse osmosis is presented. Memory – Come to think of it (repeat): A look at recent research into the brain's memory capacities. Dr. Karl Illmensee: A look at the work being done by Dr. Karl Illmensee [de] at the University of Geneva to study the possibility of causing cancerous cells to revert to normal cells.[314]
"The Foxes' Earth"03/25/1981 (Wed) (03/25/1981 (Wed))17

For centuries the people of the village of Huasicancha in Peru lived under the domination of others, from the last of the Inca rulers to the Spanish conquerors and subsequent regimes. How the people finally rose up to reclaim the poor land they farmed at a subsistence level is told in this documentary.[315][316]
"The Last of Life / The Cajuns"04/01/1981 (Wed) (04/01/1981 (Wed))repeat

The Last of Life: A look at geriatric medicine and some aspects of research into the biology of aging. The Cajuns: The descendants of Nova Scotia's Acadians and their lifestyle are profiled at their adopted home, the Bayou Lafourche in southern Louisiana.

Season 22: 1981–1982[edit]

  • Wednesdays at 8:00 pm
  • Length 1 hour


Title Broadcast date Episode
"Reconnective Surgery / Shark Vision / Reclaiming the Desert / The Battery"10/14/1981 (Wed) (10/14/1981 (Wed))01

Season Premiere: David Suzuki examines reconnective surgery and the vision capabilities of sharks, visits an irrigation project in India and explains the functions of batteries. The micro-surgery segment was taped in China and features Dr. Chen Chung Wei of the 6th People's Hospital in Shanghai. Dr. Chen is credited with pioneering the techniques now being practiced at Toronto's General hospital.[317]
"Rabies / Island of Coral / Microwave Ovens"10/21/1981 (Wed) (10/21/1981 (Wed))02

Steps being taken to combat rabies in Ontario, an Island of Coral which provides a home for some of the world's most unique creatures, and the advantages and hazards of microwave ovens.[318]
"Edge of the Cold (Part 1 of 2)"10/28/1981 (Wed) (10/28/1981 (Wed))03

David Parer's Australian examination of the wildlife on Macquarie Island, narrated by Sir Edmund Hillary.[319] The Australian Broadcasting Corporation produced four half-hour films about the Macquarie Islands. This episode of The Nature of Things compiles two of them. The other two episodes are broadcast in "Edge of the Cold part 2" on 8 December 1982.
"Waterproof Frog / The Piano / In the Sub-Nuclear Kitchen / The Record"11/04/1981 (Wed) (11/04/1981 (Wed))04

Waterproof Frog: A look at the unique frog Phyllomedusa which lives in the arid Gran Chaco region of central South America. The frog protects itself against water loss by coating its body with a waxy secretion. The Piano: A program about the history and science of the piano. In the Sub-Nuclear Kitchen: A brief look at particle physics and the huge particle accelerator at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva. The Record: A history of the phonograph record.[320]
"A Magic Way of Going"11/11/1981 (Wed) (11/11/1981 (Wed))05

A study of the genetic and biological development of thoroughbred horses, tracing the history of the animal from the time that horses were small creatures to the sleek, larger size animals they are today.[321]
"Twins – And Then There Were Two"11/18/1981 (Wed) (11/18/1981 (Wed))06

This is a special edition based on two half hour programs that first aired in 1978. Producer Heather Cook has revised and updated the original programs to include the latest research data in studies that have been continuing over long periods at various medical centres and universities in North America. The program explains how cells divide to produce twins and the differences between fraternal twins and identical twins.[226][322]
"A Natural Turn of Events / Kidney Transplant / Kelp"12/09/1981 (Wed) (12/09/1981 (Wed))07

A Natural Turn of Events: Construction in Toronto has led to the creation of a long spit of land – the Leslie Street Spit – which is turning into a prime nesting location for many kinds of birds, and also for migrating monarch butterflies. Kidney Transplant: Kidney dialysis and transplants, with Dr. Michael Robinette of the Toronto General Hospital. Kelp: A look at kelp harvesting in China, and the products that can be made from it.[323]
"Microscope: Making It Big / Desert Doctors / Polar Bear Pass"01/06/1982 (Wed) (01/06/1982 (Wed))08

Microscope: Making It Big: A look at the history and present development of the microscope. Desert Doctors: A look at the mobile hospitals used to treat people inexpensively in India's Rajisthan Desert. Polar Bear Pass: A look at Polar Bear Pass, an important oasis of arctic wildlife on Canada's Bathurst Island.[324]
"Tipping The Scales"01/13/1982 (Wed) (01/13/1982 (Wed))09

The various factors which influence human weight are examined through reports on eating habits, diets, and basic metabolism.[325] Rescheduled from 12/02/1981.[326]
"An Island Shall a Monster Make / Philip Morrison on Nuclear War"01/20/1982 (Wed) (01/20/1982 (Wed))10

A magazine edition highlights the giant lizards on the island of Mona near Puerto Rico, and physics professor Philip Morrison's work on the atomic bomb as a team member on the Manhattan Project.[327][328]
"Aspirin / Windy Bay / Fluorescent Light"01/27/1982 (Wed) (01/27/1982 (Wed))11

Aspirin: An examination of how the common drug aspirin may have widespread application in combating heart and circulatory system diseases. This depends on its action, only recently appreciated, of inhibiting blood clotting. Windy Bay: A look at Windy Bay, on Lyell Island in the Queen Charlotte Islands, one of the last areas of virgin rainforest on the Canadian west coast. Windy Bay is now threatened by clearcut logging even though it has been suggested as a priority site for international conservation. Fluorescent Light: How fluorescent lights work and how they are manufactured.[329]
"Hanuman Langurs: Monkeys of India / A Helping Hand / Formation Flight"02/03/1982 (Wed) (02/03/1982 (Wed))12

Hanuman Langurs: Monkeys of India: A look at the social organization and adaptation to human settlements of Hanuman langurs, social monkeys who are named for the monkey god Hanuman. A Helping Hand: A look at myoelectric prostheses, artificial limbs which, while being powered by batteries, are actually controlled by amplified muscle electricity. Formation Flight: Examining the reasons why large birds tend to fly in formation.[330]
"Jute Plastic / The Life of the Honeybee / Dr. Joel Hildebrand"02/24/1982 (Wed) (02/24/1982 (Wed))13

Jute Plastic: The harvesting and processing of Bangladesh's jute fibre. Jute sheets coated with polyester resin and laminated together form a strong cheap material which may win an international market for jute. The Life of the Honeybee: A documentary following the life cycle of the honey bee and the social organization of the hive. Dr. Joel Hildebrand: David Suzuki travels to the University of California at Berkeley to attend the celebration of the 100th birthday of Dr. Joel Hildebrand, who is active in science after teaching chemistry for many years.[331]
"Mind's Eye / Tide Mill / Colour It Snake"03/10/1982 (Wed) (03/10/1982 (Wed))14

Mind's Eye: A report on recent research into how the brain constructs vision from the information supplied by the eyes. Tide Mill: A look at a grist mill at Ealing in England which for two centuries has run on tidal power. Colour It Snake: A discussion of the ways in which the basic pigments in snake scales are arranged to produce colour patterns fitting various survival needs.[332]
"The Asteroid and the Dinosaur"03/24/1982 (Wed) (03/24/1982 (Wed))15

An examination of the theory advanced by physicist Luis Alvarez and others that an asteroid impact was responsible for the sudden total extinction of the dinosaurs over sixty million years ago.[333]
"Waves / The Harp Seal / Blackfly"03/31/1982 (Wed) (03/31/1982 (Wed))16

Waves: An update of the program "Freak Waves" originally broadcast in December 1980. A further look at research being done into wave formations that can destroy oil rigs on the open sea. The Harp Seal (repeat): The development of the harp seal is traced, from birth through nursing to its eventual migration northward. Blackfly (repeat): A look at disease and other problems caused by blackflies.[334]

Season 23: 1982–1983[edit]

  • Wednesdays at 8:00 pm
  • Length 1 hour
Title Broadcast date Episode
"Gutenberg Revisited / Diving Birds / Tulips"10/20/1982 (Wed) (10/20/1982 (Wed))01

Season Premier: Gutenberg Revisited: A look at new developments in microelectronic information processing, focusing on the Telidon system, a Canadian invention offering two-way interactive television. Diving Birds: A look at adaptations in aquatic birds such as ducks and geese which allow them to make long dives under water. Tulips: An overview of the tulip industry in Holland.[335]
"Northern Games / Geothermal Energy / Ships of the Desert / Coriolis Effect"10/27/1982 (Wed) (10/27/1982 (Wed))02

Northern Games: A look at the traditional games of the Inuit as they are practised 800 km north of the Arctic Circle, by youth in competition from communities across the North.[336] Geothermal Energy: A look at how geothermal energy has been adapted to supply human needs on Iceland. Ships of the Desert: An exploration of the dromedary camel, adapted for life in the desert. Coriolis Effect: A brief explanation of the coriolis effect – what it is, how it is demonstrable, and its effect on weather.[337]
"Bring Back My Bonnie"11/03/1982 (Wed) (11/03/1982 (Wed))03

A look at recovery after strokes. In previous years, strokes were frequently fatal, and brain damage was seen as permanent. Now, all this is changing. It has been found that with therapy many stroke victims can recover some or even most of the functions they have lost.[338]
"Long Point"11/10/1982 (Wed) (11/10/1982 (Wed))04

Long point marsh is a sandspit on the northern shore of Lake Erie. Discovered in 1670 by French explorers, this wildlife area has kept many of its original features and is now an important habitat for many species of animals and migrating birds.[339][340]
"Living in a Sunhouse / Brittle Bones / DIAL"11/17/1982 (Wed) (11/17/1982 (Wed))05

Featured: Solar techniques to improve the thermal efficiency of a house; treatment methods for fragile bones (osteoporosis); and a laser system called DIAL (Differential Absorption Lidar) that measures levels of environmental pollution.[341]
"The Superachievers (Japan part 1 of 2)"11/24/1982 (Wed) (11/24/1982 (Wed))06

The landmarks of Japanese science and technology since the end of World War II are highlighted in the first of two related programs. The ancient craft of Samurai swordmaking and computer based steel production are also examined.[342]
"The Nation Family (Japan part 2 of 2)"12/01/1982 (Wed) (12/01/1982 (Wed))07

The everyday life of Japanese workers is traced through their values, their leisure activities and the mechanization of their factories.[343]
"Edge of the Cold (Part 2 of 2)"12/08/1982 (Wed) (12/08/1982 (Wed))08

The Australian Broadcasting Corporation produced four half-hour films about the Macquarie Islands. This episode of The Nature of Things compiles two of them. The first was originally entitled 'Man the Hunter, Man the Keeper.' The second was originally entitled 'The Dominant Male.' The program looks at the delicate ecological balance which must be maintained for the populations of elephant seals and seabirds on the Macquarie Islands. Narrated by Sir Edmund Hillary.[344] The other two episodes were compiled into a Nature of Things broadcast of 28 October 1981.
"Tipping the Scales"12/15/1982 (Wed) (12/15/1982 (Wed))repeat

The various factors which influence human weight are examined through reports on eating habits, diets, and basic metabolism.[345]
"To Be or Not to Be"12/22/1982 (Wed) (12/22/1982 (Wed))09

Numerous questions raised by new genetic testing techniques designed to identify fetal disorders are addressed. The evolving techniques of fetal diagnosis such as amniocentesis, ultrasound and fetoscopy are also considered.[346][347] This is a revised version of 'Prenatal Diagnosis' which was originally broadcast on December 10, 1980.
"The Fragile Mountain"12/29/1982 (Wed) (12/29/1982 (Wed))10

An examination of the measures being taken by a Himalayan mountain community that is trying to avoid a flood disaster, such as that which devastated northern India in 1978.[348]
"Newborn"01/12/1983 (Wed) (01/12/1983 (Wed))repeat

A look at the first moments of an infant's life and its adaptation to the outside world.[349]
"Decade of Delay / RH Laboratory / Hawaii Telescope"01/19/1983 (Wed) (01/19/1983 (Wed))11

Decade of Delay: A look at what can be done to make cars safer, and an inquiry into why it is not being done. RH Laboratory: A visit to the special Rh. laboratory in Winnipeg, which was the world pioneer in combating Rh disease, an infant condition that results from the presence or absence of the rhesus factor in individual blood cells. Hawaii Telescope: A look at the telescope and observatory erected by a joint venture of Canada and France on Mauna Kea volcano in Hawaii.[350]
"Water: Friend or Foe?"01/26/1983 (Wed) (01/26/1983 (Wed))12

Holland's Delta Project, a task involving difficult measures to reclaim land from the sea, is detailed.[351]
"The Gentle Giants / Ancient Diseases / Water Weeds"02/02/1983 (Wed) (02/02/1983 (Wed))13

The Gentle Giants: A film on the gray whales who live off the pacific coast of North America. Ancient Diseases: A look at paleopathology and what can be learned about the past of man and the history of diseases through the autopsy of ancient human remains. Water Weeds: A look at an experimental project in Listowel, Ontario, using cattails to purify sewage. The cattails thrive in sewage where they also filter out some industrial contaminants as well as deal with organic compounds.[352]
"Hanuman Langurs: Monkeys of India / A Helping Hand / Formation Flight"02/09/1983 (Wed) (02/09/1983 (Wed))repeat

Hanuman Langurs: Monkeys of India: A look at the social organization and adaptation to human settlements of Hanuman langurs, social monkeys who are named for the monkey god Hanuman. A Helping Hand: A look at myoelectric prostheses, artificial limbs which, while being powered by batteries, are actually controlled by amplified muscle electricity. Formation Flight: Examining the reasons why large birds tend to fly in formation.[353]
"Jute Plastic / The Life of the Honeybee / Dr. Joel Hildebrand"02/16/1983 (Wed) (02/16/1983 (Wed))repeat

The harvesting and processing of Bangladesh's jute fiber, the life cycle of a honeybee colony, and the work of Berkeley professor Dr. Joel Hildebrand are highlighted.[354]
"An Island Shall a Monster Make / Philip Morrison on Nuclear War"02/23/1983 (Wed) (02/23/1983 (Wed))repeat

A magazine edition highlights the giant lizards on the island of Mona near Puerto Rico, physics professor Philip Morrison's work on the atomic bomb as a team member on the Manhattan Project, and water in its frozen state.[355]
"Magnet Earth"03/02/1983 (Wed) (03/02/1983 (Wed))14

A one-hour film from the BBC series Horizon exploring the effects of the Earth's magnetic field on animals and, to a lesser extent, humans.[356]
"Waterproof Frog / The Piano / In the Sub-Nuclear Kitchen / The Record"03/09/1983 (Wed) (03/09/1983 (Wed))repeat

Waterproof Frog: A look at the unique frog Phyllomedusa which lives in the arid Gran Chaco region of central South America. The frog protects itself against water loss by coating its body with a waxy secretion. The Piano: A program about the history and science of the piano. In the Sub-Nuclear Kitchen: A brief look at particle physics and the huge particle accelerator at the European Centre for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva. The Record: A history of the phonograph record.[357]
"Sri Lanka, Temple of the Elephant"; alternate title: "Sri Lanka: Island of Serendib"03/16/1983 (Wed) (03/16/1983 (Wed))repeat

The island paradise of Sri Lanka is visited in a comprehensive study that examines the dangers its wildlife faces from cultural and technological changes.[358]
"On The Track of the Wild Otter"03/30/1983 (Wed) (03/30/1983 (Wed))15

The social life of one of nature's shyest creatures is examined in a year-round study of its behavior.[359][360]

Season 24: 1983–1984[edit]

  • Wednesdays at 8:00 pm
  • Length 1 hour
Title Broadcast date Episode
"Swimming / Diabetes: Beating the Needle / Glass Eyes"10/05/1983 (Wed) (10/05/1983 (Wed))01

Season Premiere: Dr. David Suzuki profiles veteran Canadian swimmer Dan Thompson, the lifestyles of diabetics and the manufacturing of glass eyes.[361]
"Cobra: India's Good Snake / Blue Babies / High Flight"10/12/1983 (Wed) (10/12/1983 (Wed))02

Cobra: India's Good Snake: Ignorance and superstition surround the cobra, threatening the members of this species which is helpful to man. Blue Babies: David Suzuki talks with cardiologist Peter Olley of the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto concerning the pharmaceutical and medical treatment of infants born with a congenital heart defect. High Flight: Research is beginning to uncover the reasons why birds can fly at high altitudes that would cause brain damage in humans.[362]
"Animal Imposters"10/19/1983 (Wed) (10/19/1983 (Wed))03

The clever methods of various creatures either to hunt or to avoid being hunted are examined in locations including Central America and Australia.[363]
"Spas: Magic or Medicine?"10/26/1983 (Wed) (10/26/1983 (Wed))04

England, Japan, France and Toronto are among the locations for a study of treatments at spas for health conditions.[364]
"The Cathedral Engineers / Neem: A Natural Insecticide / Bluebird Trails"11/02/1983 (Wed) (11/02/1983 (Wed))05

The Cathedral Engineers: Shot on location in France and New York City, the program looks at the history and philosophy of European gothic cathedrals. Neem: A Natural Insecticide: Products of the neem, one of the world's most useful trees, are used to make everything from soap to insecticide. Bluebird Trails: Pushed out of prime nesting sites by the introduction of the English sparrow and starling in 1900, the North American bluebird is making a comeback thanks to specially constructed bluebird boxes built across eastern North America.[365][366]
"Salmon on the Line"11/09/1983 (Wed) (11/09/1983 (Wed))06

This hour-long program documents the reasons for the decline of some species of pacific salmon. The life cycles, spawning, and migration of various types of pacific salmon are studied.[367][368]
"Bishnois and the Antelope / Cyclosporin / Freezing Water"11/16/1983 (Wed) (11/16/1983 (Wed))07

Bishnois and the Antelope: a Hindu sect known as the Bishnois live on the edge of the Rajasthan desert in northwestern India. Strict vegetarians, they have an awareness of ecology which makes them protectors of their environment. Cyclosporin: A new anti-rejection drug cyclosporin is being used to treat transplant patients. Freezing Water: A look at what happens when water is frozen.[369]
"Footsteps on the Moon / Salamanders / Iron Age Village"11/23/1983 (Wed) (11/23/1983 (Wed))08

The moon's role in man's history, the anatomy of salamanders, and the discovery of an iron-age village are highlighted.[370]
"A Natural Turn of Events / Kidney Transplant / Kelp"11/30/1983 (Wed) (11/30/1983 (Wed))repeat

A Natural Turn of Events: Construction in Toronto has led to the creation of a long spit of land – the Leslie Street Spit – which is turning into a prime nesting location for many kinds of birds, and also for migrating monarch butterflies. Kidney Transplant: Kidney dialysis and transplants, with Dr. Michael Robinette of the Toronto General Hospital. Kelp: A look at kelp harvesting in China, and the products that can be made from it.[371]
"Snappers / Inside Out / Samurai Armour"12/07/1983 (Wed) (12/07/1983 (Wed))09

Featured: the snapping turtle is profiled; a look at technology which enables doctors to examine the interior of the body without surgical intervention, and a visit to a Japanese craftsman's workshop where Samurai armour is made.[372]
"Flight Simulators / Beating The Blues"12/21/1983 (Wed) (12/21/1983 (Wed))10

A visit to a Montreal company that produces sophisticated devices to train air pilots, and a report on the effects of severe depression and methods of treatment.[373]
"Making it Big / Tulips / Diving Birds"12/28/1983 (Wed) (12/28/1983 (Wed))repeat

This episode looks at the invention of the microscope, a report on Holland's tulip industry, and diving birds.[374]
"Maps: From Quill to Computer / Mountain Gophers / Japanese Silk Weaving"01/04/1984 (Wed) (01/04/1984 (Wed))11

Maps: From Quill to Computer: The history of mapmaking, from early clay tablets to state-of-the-art renditions. Mountain Gophers: a look at the Columbian ground squirrel found in the area of the Rocky Mountains, their mating and territorial habits and methods of communication with each other. Japanese Silk Weaving: A look at the production of silk, from cocoon to fabric.[375][376]
"A Magic Way of Going"01/11/1984 (Wed) (01/11/1984 (Wed))repeat

The genetic and biological development of thoroughbred horses is traced in a program filmed in Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Maryland and Kentucky.[377]
"The Superachievers (Japan part 1 of 2)"01/18/1984 (Wed) (01/18/1984 (Wed))repeat

The landmarks of Japanese science and technology since the end of World War II are highlighted in the first of two related programs. The ancient craft of Samurai swordmaking and computer based steel production are also examined.[378]
"The Nation Family (Japan part 2 of 2)"01/25/1984 (Wed) (01/25/1984 (Wed))repeat

The everyday life of Japanese workers is traced through their values, their leisure activities and the mechanization of their factories.[379]
"Long Point Marsh"02/01/1984 (Wed) (02/01/1984 (Wed))repeat

An examination of the 32-kilometer-long sandspit on the north shore of Lake Erie, which serves as home base for numerous small creatures and is now under the jurisdiction of the Canadian Wildlife Service.[380]
"Bring Back My Bonnie"02/08/1984 (Wed) (02/08/1984 (Wed))repeat

This documentary details the treatment and rehabilitation of stroke victims at Sunnybrook and Riverdale Hospitals, the Toronto Rehabilitation Centre and the homes of several victims struggling to recover.[381]
"Decade of Delay / RH Laboratory / Hawaii Telescope"02/15/1984 (Wed) (02/15/1984 (Wed))repeat

Decade of Delay: A look at what can be done to make cars safer, and an inquiry into why it is not being done. RH Laboratory: A visit to the special Rh. laboratory in Winnipeg, which was the world pioneer in combating Rh disease, an infant condition that results from the presence or absence of the rhesus factor in individual blood cells. Hawaii Telescope: A look at the telescope and observatory erected by a joint venture of Canada and France on Mauna Kea volcano in Hawaii.[382]
"The Gentle Giants / Ancient Diseases / Water Weeds"02/22/1984 (Wed) (02/22/1984 (Wed))repeat

A magazine edition features a West German film about gray whales, a profile of scientists studying million-year-old human remains, and an experiment involving sewage treatment in Listowel, Ontario.[383]
"Water: Friend or Foe?"02/29/1984 (Wed) (02/29/1984 (Wed))repeat

Holland's Delta Project, a task involving difficult measures to reclaim land from the sea, is detailed.[384]
"Edge of the Cold"03/07/1984 (Wed) (03/07/1984 (Wed))repeat

David Parer's Australian examination of the wildlife on Macquarie Island, narrated by Sir Edmund Hillary.[385]

Season 25: 1984–1985[edit]

  • Wednesdays at 8:00 pm
  • Length 1 hour
Title Broadcast date Episode
"Pain in the Back / Mobile Computers / The Birdmappers: Bird Atlas"10/10/1984 (Wed) (10/10/1984 (Wed))01

Season 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.[386]
"Kunde Hospital / Computer Choreology / Periscope Camera"10/17/1984 (Wed) (10/17/1984 (Wed))02

A 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.[387]
"Prairie Waters"10/24/1984 (Wed) (10/24/1984 (Wed))03

An exploration of Manitoba's Delta Marsh and its animal, bird and plant life.[388]
"The Miracle of Life"10/31/1984 (Wed) (10/31/1984 (Wed))04

Host 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.[389][390]
"Chinese Wall Paintings / Erie Ice / Fly Fishing"11/07/1984 (Wed) (11/07/1984 (Wed))05

Chinese Wall Paintings: Observing the detailed and time-consuming work involved in restoring two large 14th-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.[391]
"Sexual Encounters of the Floral Kind"11/14/1984 (Wed) (11/14/1984 (Wed))06

A look at how various species of plant life lure insects and animals to effect the pollination process.[392][393]
"Drought in Africa / Where the Bay Becomes the Sea / Insect Communication"11/28/1984 (Wed) (11/28/1984 (Wed))07

Drought 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.[394] Insect Communication: A look at the hearing and sound-producing mechanisms of insects, used for attracting a mate, defining territory, and defending against bats.[395]
"Making Moves / Orchids / Juggling"12/12/1984 (Wed) (12/12/1984 (Wed))08

Making Moves: Research into the technological advances that allow victims of spinal cord injuries to regain motor skills.[396] Orchids: A look at some of the varieties of wild orchids and Canadian orchids, and interviews with orchid experts. Juggling: Examining the science of juggling, including some impressive demonstrations of juggling.[397]
"Salmon on the Line"12/19/1984 (Wed) (12/19/1984 (Wed))repeat

David Suzuki takes a look at how the once-plentiful Pacific salmon is now threatened with extinction.[398][399]
"Voices in the Wind"12/26/1984 (Wed) (12/26/1984 (Wed))09

A historical look at the evolution of the pipe organ.[400]
"Dinosaurs: Remains to be Seen"01/09/1985 (Wed) (01/09/1985 (Wed))10

The program looks at the work of various experts in the fields of paleontology, geology, biology, and art as they study the evidence and history of dinosaurs and their environment.[401][402]
"CPR: Reversing Sudden Death / Catching the Wind / Environmental Sculpture"01/16/1985 (Wed) (01/16/1985 (Wed))11

CPR: 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.[403]
"The Great Lakes: Troubled Waters"01/23/1985 (Wed) (01/23/1985 (Wed))12

David Suzuki takes a look at the potential hazards of pollution and mismanagement of one of the world's greatest sources of fresh water – the Great Lakes.[404]
"A Planet for the Taking Overview / Blue Babies / High Flight"01/30/1985 (Wed) (01/30/1985 (Wed))13

Preview of the new series, A Planet for the Taking; pharmaceutical and medical treatment of infants born with a congenital heart defect; and the anatomy of the bird's lung and the biochemistry of its brain that makes high flight possible.[405][406]

Season 26: 1985–1986[edit]

  • Wednesdays at 8:00 pm
  • Length 1 hour
Title Broadcast date Episode
"My Goal Is To Live / The Return of the Sea Otter"10/09/1985 (Wed) (10/09/1985 (Wed))01

Season Premiere: Another visit with cystic fibrosis victim Susan McKellar, and the return of the sea otter.[407]
"Air Craft"10/16/1985 (Wed) (10/16/1985 (Wed))02

A look at the machines designed to enable man to fly, from the Wright Brothers to today's revolutionary designs.[408][409]
"Muscle Fibre / How Fish Swim"10/23/1985 (Wed) (10/23/1985 (Wed))03

Muscle Fibre: An examination of the mechanics of muscle contraction, looking at the roles of slow and fast types of muscle fibres. How Fish Swim: An examination of the biomechanics of fish locomotion, looking at the physical differences between different types of fish.[410]
"Open Heart"10/30/1985 (Wed) (10/30/1985 (Wed))04

A profile of pioneering heart surgeon Dr. William Bigelow, focusing on the development of early heart surgery procedures.[411][412]
"Plant Communication / Jaipur Foot"11/06/1985 (Wed) (11/06/1985 (Wed))05

Plant Communication: A look at the chemical defence mechanisms of plants and how they are triggered. Jaipur Foot: An artificial foot designed to fit in with rural India's environment and culture.[413]
"Doctors of Tomorrow / Walking / The Vortex"11/13/1985 (Wed) (11/13/1985 (Wed))06

Doctors of Tomorrow: A unconventional form of medical education at McMaster University, in a program of self-directed learning, with no classes, lectures, or exams. Walking: An examination of the continual pendulum-like exchange of potential and kinetic energy that makes walking the most efficient form of human locomotion. The Vortex: A description of how whirlpools are formed and the consequences of this primary pattern of movement on the surrounding environment.[414][415]
"Dinosaurs: Remains to be Seen"11/20/1985 (Wed) (11/20/1985 (Wed))repeat

Evidence from fossilized footprints, bones and pollen are used to create a facsimile of the world of the dinosaur.[416]
"Ducks in Danger"11/27/1985 (Wed) (11/27/1985 (Wed))07

David Suzuki investigates how the duck population is being threatened by toxic water, poor hunting regulations and blocked legislation.[417][418]
"The New Face of Leprosy"12/04/1985 (Wed) (12/04/1985 (Wed))08

A progress report on leprosy includes programs designed to educate people in recognizing early symptoms of this disease that still afflicts people worldwide.[419]
"How Alcohol Affects the Body / Ancient Life-forms / The Physics of Archery"12/11/1985 (Wed) (12/11/1985 (Wed))??
"Islands at the Edge"01/29/1986 (Wed) (01/29/1986 (Wed))??

The wilderness refuge of British Columbia's Queen Charlotte Islands is threatened by logging operations intent on harvesting the Sitka spruce.[420][421]
"Microscopic Plants and Oxygen"02/26/1986 (Wed) (02/26/1986 (Wed))??
"Acid Rains"03/12/1986 (Wed) (03/12/1986 (Wed))??

Season 27: 1986–1987[edit]


Title Broadcast date Episode
"Season Premier"10/08/1986 (Wed) (10/08/1986 (Wed))01

David Suzuki is the host of this award-winning science show which begins its 27th season. What will the car of the future be like? Faster? Sleeker? Will it be built by humans – or machines? Will it continue to pollute and kill? Join David Suzuki for an eye-opening ride through the fact and fantasy of the machine we love. And hate.[422][423]
"Restless Sky; Rotation; Handcraft in History"10/15/1986 (Wed) (10/15/1986 (Wed))02

Clouds, and the atmospheric forces that create weather; an illustration of the principle of rotation; traditional methods and modern techniques employed in making paper in Nepal.[424][425]
"The Niagara Escarpment: A Rock Video"10/22/1986 (Wed) (10/22/1986 (Wed))03

A look at the dangerous and beautiful Niagara Escarpment, a limestone spine that runs northward from Niagara Falls through the densely populated province of Ontario.[426][427]
"(Placeholder)"10/29/1986 (Wed) (10/29/1986 (Wed))04

Bereaved Argentinian women whose persistence and courage have enlisted help from American geneticists and forensic scientists in identifying the victims of their former government's persecution; ultrasonic sound and kidney stones; ambitious curbside recycling programs.[428]
"(Placeholder)"11/05/1986 (Wed) (11/05/1986 (Wed))05

A look at the therapeutic use of plants over the years to cure illnesses and maintain good health, and how the deteriorating number of plant species in the world may prove to be a medical, as well as environmental, loss to humanity.[429]
"(Placeholder)"11/12/1986 (Wed) (11/12/1986 (Wed))06

A look at how some animals, including the snapping shrimp and possibly the whale, use sound waves to stun their prey.[430]
"Women of Kerala / Vortex"11/26/1986 (Wed) (11/26/1986 (Wed))07

Describes a program in Kerala, a state in southern India, where a combination of contraception, voluntary sterilization, increased education, a lowered rate of infant mortality, and the extension of health care to impoverished rural areas has produced a dramatic decrease in the birth rate. Also, scientific and technical research focused on the vortex.[431][432]
"Air Craft"12/03/1986 (Wed) (12/03/1986 (Wed))repeat

A look at flying machines, from the Wright Brothers to today's revolutionary designs.[433]
"The Familiar Face of Love"12/10/1986 (Wed) (12/10/1986 (Wed))08

An exploration into the psychological and social forces which form our ideas and feelings about the opposite sex.[434][435]
"Caribou Drowning in Labrador / Teflon Knee Ligaments"12/17/1986 (Wed) (12/17/1986 (Wed))09

An investigation into the drowning of 10,000 caribou in Limestone Falls, Labrador, in 1984, and a knee operation using a newly developed artificial ligament made of flexible Teflon.[436]
"(Placeholder)"01/07/1987 (Wed) (01/07/1987 (Wed))10

The language behind the gestures of a symphony conductor; and Canada's oldest residential environment education program, the Toronto Island Public and Nature Science School.[437]
"(Placeholder)"01/14/1987 (Wed) (01/14/1987 (Wed))11

A visit to a classroom where an innovative approach is taken in teaching math, and children are encouraged to invent their own math problems to solve by creating games and puzzles.[438]
"(Placeholder)"02/04/1987 (Wed) (02/04/1987 (Wed))12

The chemistry of fire; and a look at two species of cormorants noted for their fishing abilities.[439]
"(Placeholder)"02/18/1987 (Wed) (02/18/1987 (Wed))13

A simple solution of sugar, salt and water is saving millions of children's lives in Third World countries from diarrhea and subsequent dehydration, which causes more deaths than famine.[440]
"(Placeholder)"03/11/1987 (Wed) (03/11/1987 (Wed))14

This journey into the human immune system focuses on various aspects of the AIDS virus, from its origin in history to the psycho-social impact on its victims and society.[441]

Season 28: 1987–1988[edit]

Title Broadcast date Episode
"(Placeholder)"10/07/1987 (Wed) (10/07/1987 (Wed))repeat

Season premiere: David Suzuki reports on the origins and history of AIDS as well as the psycho-social impact on its victims.[442]
"Home of the Birds"10/14/1987 (Wed) (10/14/1987 (Wed))01

Declining populations of seabirds on the Gulf of St. Lawrence.[443]
"(Placeholder)"10/21/1987 (Wed) (10/21/1987 (Wed))02

Modern uses of radar, and the philosophy and science of dowsing for water.[444]
"The Anatomy of Eloquence / Fossils in shale"10/28/1987 (Wed) (10/28/1987 (Wed))03

The physiology of speech production, and fossils in shale.[445][446]
"(Placeholder)"11/04/1987 (Wed) (11/04/1987 (Wed))04

Los Angeles County's toxic waste strike force, and how fish swim.[447]
"(Placeholder)"11/11/1987 (Wed) (11/11/1987 (Wed))repeat

Caribou migration patterns, and teflon knees.[448]
"(Placeholder)"11/18/1987 (Wed) (11/18/1987 (Wed))05

The fate of the Franklin expedition through the Arctic.[449]
"Nuclear Power: The Hot Debate"11/25/1987 (Wed) (11/25/1987 (Wed))06

The long-term effects of fall-out from Chernobyl are still being debated. The pros and cons of nuclear power have been hotly debated for the past decade, but the shock waves of the accidents at Three Mile Island and Chernobyl have brought that debate to a boil. This episode looks at that debate. How safe are reactors and waste disposal? What about uranium mining, weapons proliferation, and the economics? How safe is nuclear energy and what are the alternatives?[450][451][452]
"(Placeholder)"12/02/1987 (Wed) (12/02/1987 (Wed))07

A year in the life of a bald eagle, and history of balloons and airships.[453]
"Serving Time / Arctic wildlife"12/16/1987 (Wed) (12/16/1987 (Wed))08

Zoos as a refuge for endangered species, and the wildlife of the Arctic.[454]
"The Living Arctic"12/23/1987 (Wed) (12/23/1987 (Wed))repeat

Wildlife in the Arctic.[455]
"Spas: Magic Or Medicine"12/30/1987 (Wed) (12/30/1987 (Wed))repeat

Season 29: 1988–1989[edit]

Title Broadcast date Episode
"The Knowing Nose"10/05/1988 (Wed) (10/05/1988 (Wed))01

29th Season Premiere: An exploration of the sense of smell in both animals and humans.[456][457]
"Trouble In The Forest"10/12/1988 (Wed) (10/12/1988 (Wed))02

An examination of forest dieback considers the possible effects of air pollution and acid rain.[458]
"(Placeholder)"10/19/1988 (Wed) (10/19/1988 (Wed))repeat

Imaging radar produces three-dimensional pictures of Earth's biosphere, and the philosophy and science of dowsing for water.[459]
"(Placeholder)"10/26/1988 (Wed) (10/26/1988 (Wed))03

Multicelled human organisms evolve from matter created 14.5 billion years before.[460]
"(Placeholder)"11/02/1988 (Wed) (11/02/1988 (Wed))04

Analyzing facial musculature, and a Hindu hospital for birds.[461]
"(Placeholder)"11/09/1988 (Wed) (11/09/1988 (Wed))05

A Jamaican bat cave; gardening and ecological principles.[462]
"The USSR – The Changing of the Guard"11/16/1988 (Wed) (11/16/1988 (Wed))repeat

Science and technology restructure society.[463]
"Blowpipes and Bulldozers"01/11/1989 (Wed) (01/11/1989 (Wed))06

Swiss artist Bruno Manser works to save the Penan tribe of the Malaysian forest.[464][465]
"Back Pain / Structural Colours"01/18/1989 (Wed) (01/18/1989 (Wed))07
"Roger Tory Peterson: Portrait of a Bird Watcher Update"02/22/1989 (Wed) (02/22/1989 (Wed))08
"Edge of Ice"03/02/1989 (Thu) (03/02/1989 (Thu))09
"The New Face of Leprosy"05/17/1989 (Wed) (05/17/1989 (Wed))10
"AIDS: A Report"07/19/1989 (Wed) (07/19/1989 (Wed))11

Season 30: 1989–1990[edit]

Title Broadcast date Episode
"(placeholder)"09/27/1989 (Wed) (09/27/1989 (Wed))01

Season premiere: History of rubber. Includes its cultivation from wild trees.[466]
"(placeholder)"12/06/1989 (Wed) (12/06/1989 (Wed))??

The conservation of rare breeds of farm animals, and the feeding behaviour of the phalarope, an unusual shorebird.[467]
"A look at how various forms of wildlife survive in the Arctic regions. (Part 2 of 2)"12/27/1989 (Wed) (12/27/1989 (Wed))??
"The Familiar Face of Love"02/14/1990 (Wed) (02/14/1990 (Wed))repeat

The psychological and social forces which shape people's feelings and ideas about the opposite sex.
"Psychologist John Kennedy, from the University of Toronto, examines the ability of blind people to create and interpret visual images."02/28/1990 (Wed) (02/28/1990 (Wed))??
"Turning to Dust"03/14/1990 (Wed) (03/14/1990 (Wed))??

Host David Suzuki and narrator Angela Fusco present this program on the deterioration of paper in old books around the world. At least one-third of the world's books are turning into particles and dust as they become embrittled. This program describes various methods of book preservation, including re-binding, photocopying, de-acidification and creating micro-fiche copies.[468][469]
"The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, a wilderness against the Canada/U.S. border that is the calving grounds of caribou, is threatened by the U.S. Department of the Interior's plans to develop the land for oil"06/20/1990 (Wed) (06/20/1990 (Wed))??
"Profiling the declining seabird population on the small islands east of Quebec City"07/18/1990 (Wed) (07/18/1990 (Wed))??
"The reasons behind the impending extinction of the black rhino are explored"08/01/1990 (Wed) (08/01/1990 (Wed))??
"Through the Looking Glass"09/05/1990 (Wed) (09/05/1990 (Wed))??

Dip into the show's archives; see the world and life the way it was 30 years ago.

Season 31: 1990–1991[edit]

Title Broadcast date Episode
"The Green Quiz"10/03/1990 (Wed) (10/03/1990 (Wed))01

Season premiere: This special quiz from The Nature of Things tests viewer's knowledge of the environment, touching on topics ranging from global warming and the population explosion to compost boxes and toxic chemicals in the home.[470][471]
"Crying Wolf"10/10/1990 (Wed) (10/10/1990 (Wed))02

Hunting, trapping, poisoning, and aerial gunning of Canada's gray wolf population: the controversial issue of wolf control in Canada.[472][473]
"(Placeholder)"10/17/1990 (Wed) (10/17/1990 (Wed))03

Ghana prospers by recycling car parts, and Herschel Island, off the Yukon coast, shelters life during the brief Arctic summer.[474]
"Blowpipes and Bulldozers"10/24/1990 (Wed) (10/24/1990 (Wed))repeat

Swiss artist Bruno Manser discusses his life with the nomadic Penan tribe of Malaysia.[465][475]
"The Insect World"11/07/1990 (Wed) (11/07/1990 (Wed))04

Cornell University professor Tom Eisner reveals secrets of the insect world.[476]
"The Vietnamese People's Struggle"11/28/1990 (Wed) (11/28/1990 (Wed))05
"Voices in the Forest"02/03/1991 (Sun) (02/03/1991 (Sun))Special

David Suzuki and The Nature of Things take on the powerful forest industry, examining environmentally questionable forestry practices.[477]
"Running for Their Lives"04/12/1991 (Fri) (04/12/1991 (Fri))06

Season 32: 1991–1992[edit]

Title Broadcast date Episode
"The Debate on Animal Research Issues"10/02/1991 (Wed) (10/02/1991 (Wed))01

Season premiere: Animal research.[478]
"(Placeholder)"10/09/1991 (Wed) (10/09/1991 (Wed))02

The Canadian grizzly.[479]
"Air Crash"10/16/1991 (Wed) (10/16/1991 (Wed))03

Investigators determine plane-crash causes.[480]
"The Insect World"10/23/1991 (Wed) (10/23/1991 (Wed))repeat

Cornell University professor Tom Eisner reveals secrets of the insect world.[481]
"The Insect World"11/06/1991 (Wed) (11/06/1991 (Wed))repeat

Professor Tom Eisner of Cornell examines the insect world.[482]
"The Life of the Wild Dog"12/04/1991 (Wed) (12/04/1991 (Wed))??
"Lasers: Brighter Than the Sun"01/15/1992 (Wed) (01/15/1992 (Wed))??
"Journey to the Source"02/05/1992 (Wed) (02/05/1992 (Wed))??

Three communities threatened by the dumping of toxic wastes are profiled.[483]
"Connecting Flights: Shorebird Migration"03/18/1992 (Wed) (03/18/1992 (Wed))??

Season 33: 1992–1993[edit]

Title Broadcast date Episode
"The Last Survivors"11/4/1992 (11/4/1992)01
"Living With Stress"11/11/1992 (11/11/1992)02
"If Caribou Could Vote"11/18/1992 (11/18/1992)03
"The Elements"11/25/1992 (11/25/1992)04
"Back Street Bandits/Milkweed"12/2/1992 (12/2/1992)05
"End of the Line"12/16/1992 (12/16/1992)06
"Toys"12/23/1992 (12/23/1992)07
"In the Company of Moose"1/6/1993 (1/6/1993)08
"The Mystery of the Mind"1/20/1993 (1/20/1993)09
"Monkey Business"1/27/1993 (1/27/1993)10
"Diabetes: Blood Sugar, Sweat and Tears"2/3/1993 (2/3/1993)11
"Baboons"2/16/1993 (2/16/1993)12
"Coral Reefs: Rain Forests of the Sea"2/24/1993 (2/24/1993)13
"Pumping Hormones"3/24/1993 (3/24/1993)14
"The Hidden World of the Bog"3/31/1993 (3/31/1993)15

Looks at bogs, the mysterious foggy wetlands with a reputation for being dangerous and expendible, which in fact contain a rich and intriguing diversity of plants and animals.[484][485]
"A Climate for Change"5/30/1993 (5/30/1993)16

Season 34: 1993–1994[edit]

Title Broadcast date Episode
"Vitamins: Hype or Hope"10/06/1993 (Wed) (10/06/1993 (Wed))01

Season premiere: Examines vitamins and possible vitamin therapies in the future.[486]
"End of the Line"10/13/1993 (Wed) (10/13/1993 (Wed))02

David Suzuki updates a report on overfishing and other man-made threats to the oceans.[487]
"The Pyramid Builders"10/20/1993 (Wed) (10/20/1993 (Wed))03

Stonemasons and laborers try to construct a pyramid exactly the way it was done 4,000 years ago.[488]
"The Living City"10/27/1993 (Wed) (10/27/1993 (Wed))04

Alternatives to sprawling suburbs.[489]
"(Placeholder)"11/03/1993 (Wed) (11/03/1993 (Wed))repeat

An elephant-seal pup learns to swim, dive, sleep under water and recognize food.[490]
"The Shoreline Doesn't Stop Here Anymore"11/10/1993 (Wed) (11/10/1993 (Wed))05

Beachfront property owners try to stop the process of erosion.[491]
"Living Color"11/17/1993 (Wed) (11/17/1993 (Wed))06

Color: how it is perceived and how it affects everyday life.[492]
"No Spare Parts"11/24/1993 (Wed) (11/24/1993 (Wed))repeat

Small workshops use recycled automobile parts and traditional crafting skills to produce machinery of great benefit to the local people.[493][494]
"What's in a Neem?"12/01/1993 (Wed) (12/01/1993 (Wed))07

The Nature of Things devotes a full hour to discussing the current and possible uses of this tropical tree.[495][496]
"Ancient Futures: Learning from Ladakh"12/15/1993 (Wed) (12/15/1993 (Wed))08

Ladakh is a desert land high in the western Himalayas that is now experiencing rapid modernisation and "development" that is degrading both the environment and the culture. Ancient Futures examines the root causes of environmental and social problems and compels the viewer to re-examine what is meant by "progress".[497][498]
"Seasons of the Sea"12/22/1993 (Wed) (12/22/1993 (Wed))repeat

Life cycles of creatures in California's undersea forests of giant kelp.[499]
"The Invaders"01/05/1994 (Wed) (01/05/1994 (Wed))??
"Greening Business"01/19/1994 (Wed) (01/19/1994 (Wed))??
"Crater of the Rain God"01/26/1994 (Wed) (01/26/1994 (Wed))??
"Allergies: Nothing to Sneeze At"02/02/1994 (Wed) (02/02/1994 (Wed))??
"Wolves of the Sea"02/09/1994 (Wed) (02/09/1994 (Wed))??
"Tiger Crisis"02/16/1994 (Wed) (02/16/1994 (Wed))??
"Tiger Crisis"02/23/1994 (Wed) (02/23/1994 (Wed))??
"Songbirds"03/02/1994 (Wed) (03/02/1994 (Wed))??
"Tuberculosis: The Forgotten Plague"03/09/1994 (Wed) (03/09/1994 (Wed))??
"Memory: The Past Imperfect"03/20/1994 (Sun) (03/20/1994 (Sun))??

Season 35: 1994–1995[edit]

Title Broadcast date Episode
"Easy Targets"10/06/1994 (Thu) (10/06/1994 (Thu))01

Season premiere: An in-depth look at the child abuse, its victims, its perpetrators and its prevention.[500][501]
"Balancing Act/Kids Go Wild"10/13/1994 (Thu) (10/13/1994 (Thu))02
"Falcons by the Sea/Milkweed"10/19/1994 (Wed)
[citation needed] (10/19/1994 (Wed)
[citation needed])		03
"Shadows in a Desert Sea"10/20/1994 (Thu) (10/20/1994 (Thu))04

A profile of life within the Sea of Cortez; a stretch of water between the Baja Peninsula and the coast of Mexico.[502]
"Through the Looking Glass (is this a repeat from 09/05/1990 ?)"10/22/1994 (Sat) (10/22/1994 (Sat))05
"Lives in Limbo"10/27/1994 (Thu) (10/27/1994 (Thu))06

The Nature of Things examines chronic fatigue syndrome and talks with the world's leading experts, doctors, researchers and victims about this illness which causes a life of misery for those afflicted.[503]

Season 36: 1995–1996[edit]

Title Broadcast date Episode
"Where The Heron Finds Its Home"10/12/1995 (Thu) (10/12/1995 (Thu))01

North America's great blue heron is being discovered by biologists to be a sensitive indicator of the state of our wetlands. If herons are abundant, the wetlands they inhabit form a healthy ecosystem.[504][505]
"Alternative Medicine: Teaching New Doctors Old Tricks"10/19/1995 (Thu) (10/19/1995 (Thu))02

Interviews with doctors regarding alternative medicine. Topics include acupuncture, homeopathy, ayurveda, and aboriginal medicine.[506][507]
"Back to Basics"01/04/1996 (Thu) (01/04/1996 (Thu))??

Back to Basics focuses on back pain in the workplace, and provides some of the latest information on the value of exercise in the prevention, management and treatment of back pain.
"Why Sex?"02/01/1996 (Thu) (02/01/1996 (Thu))??

A look at scientific explanations for that mysterious and unparalleled force known as 'sex'.[508]
"Martin Gardner: Mathemagician"03/26/1996 (Thu) (03/26/1996 (Thu))??

Season 37: 1996–1997[edit]

Title Broadcast date Episode
"Skin Deep: The Science of Race"10/03/1996 (Thu) (10/03/1996 (Thu))01
"The Three Gorges Dam"10/10/1996 (Thu) (10/10/1996 (Thu))02
"Roger Tory Peterson; Portrait of a Birdwatcher"10/17/1996 (Thu) (10/17/1996 (Thu))repeat
"Vanishing Wetlands"10/24/1996 (Thu) (10/24/1996 (Thu))03

We now understand the importance of wetlands to our watersheds, but this has not always been the case. Vanishing Wetlands describes how almost all of the wetlands in Europe and North America have been drained and filled to make way for industrial development and agriculture. The viewer learns about the water cycle and how wetlands reduce the severity of floods by storing excess water during flooding events, how wetlands act as filters and allow sediment to settle before reaching waterways, how a wetland is utilized by both aquatic and terrestrial species, and the importance of wetlands to migratory birds.[509]
"Paul Ehrlich and the Population Bomb"10/31/1996 (Thu) (10/31/1996 (Thu))04
"Alternative Medicine: Teaching New Doctors Old Tricks"11/07/1996 (Thu) (11/07/1996 (Thu))repeat
"Pelicans and Cormorants: Prairie Scapegoats"11/14/1996 (Thu) (11/14/1996 (Thu))05
"The Child Who Couldn't Play"11/21/1996 (Thu) (11/21/1996 (Thu))repeat
"Asthma: Air of Mystery"12/05/1996 (Thu) (12/05/1996 (Thu))06
"Learning to Love the Creepy Crawlies"12/12/1996 (Thu) (12/12/1996 (Thu))repeat
"Bald Eagle: Searching for Home"12/19/1996 (Thu) (12/19/1996 (Thu))07

In many places bald eagles return to find their habitat occupied and their food supply gone. This program explains how commercial fishing, logging and urban sprawl have destroyed salmon stocks, which in turn affects bald eagles who feed on the fish.[510]
"John Livingston: The Natural History of a Point of View"01/16/1997 (Thu) (01/16/1997 (Thu))repeat

John Livingston makes observations critical toward what he terms a "human-centered orthodoxy," and the idea that we have conceptually separated ourselves from nature. He discusses the general elements of various issues relating to conservation, environment, nature, and development, making the program readily understandable and potentially appropriate to a wide variety of audiences.[511]
"Echo of the Elephants: The Next Generation"01/23/1997 (Thu) (01/23/1997 (Thu))repeat
"Dealing With Drugs Update"01/30/1997 (Thu) (01/30/1997 (Thu))repeat
"The Great Buffalo Delta"02/06/1997 (Thu) (02/06/1997 (Thu))repeat
"The Friendly Atom: An Industrial History"02/13/1997 (Thu)
[citation needed] (02/13/1997 (Thu)
[citation needed])		08
"Yellowstone to Yukon: The Wild Heart of North America"02/20/1997 (Thu) (02/20/1997 (Thu))09

A journey is taken through the untamed grandeur of the Rocky Mountains... all the way from Yellowstone National Park to Canada's Yukon Territory. An effort to create a wildlife corridor through this length of the Rockies is presented.[512]
"The Trouble With Malaria"02/27/1997 (Thu) (02/27/1997 (Thu))10

The Nature of Things looks at the way in which changes in the environment put people at greater risk of contracting disease, and how misuse of infection-fighting drugs helps the malaria organism to build its own resistance.[513]
"Hormone Imposters"03/27/1997 (Thu) (03/27/1997 (Thu))11

Hormone Imposters looks at the way chemicals in our everyday lives are infiltrating our bodies, mimicking our hormones. By doing this, they trigger unwanted activities and block other crucial biological events from taking place.[514]

Season 38: 1998[edit]

Title Broadcast date Episode
"Secret Fears"01/08/1998 (Thu) (01/08/1998 (Thu))01

Season Opener: The Nature of Things hears firsthand from patients who are fighting to rule their fears, rather than be ruled by them.[515]
"Lost in the Suburbs"01/15/1998 (Thu) (01/15/1998 (Thu))02

An examination of the social, economic and environmental implications of sprawl – low-density development that spreads out from the edge of cities and towns and consumes farmland, forest and wetlands.[516]
"Wildlife for Sale – Dead or Alive!"01/22/1998 (Thu) (01/22/1998 (Thu))03
"Not So Sweet"01/29/1998 (Thu) (01/29/1998 (Thu))04
"Little Brother Fights Back"02/05/1998 (Thu) (02/05/1998 (Thu))