Understanding: Bacteria

What do Swiss cheese and Botox treatments have in common? Both are dependent on bacteria. Understanding: Bacteria is an excellent program that takes viewers into the beautiful--and scary--world of bacteria in and around us. Pointing out that some bacteria are beneficial to human life, while others are incredibly destructive, the program informs viewers that the difference sometimes depends on how bacteria are used, such as in the case of the botulinum toxin, which can kill as botulism, or heal as a treatment for MS or Parkinson's disease. Exploring the tricky new problem of bacteria developing resistance to traditional antibiotics through the case study of a young boy named Elijah, the video also looks at how bacteria are closely related to the Earth's environmental health (which in turn is linked to economics). Combining commentary from scientific experts, sound bites from high schoolers, terrific graphics, and a script that encourages critical thinking, this practical “real-life”-focused program is highly recommended. Aud: I, J, H. (E. Gieschen)