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See a Plant’s-Eye View of the World
Friday, October 23rd, 2009

The Botany of Desire premieres Sunday, November 1 at 9 p.m. on WLIW21
Ruth Dundas

Credit: Ruth Dundas

Flowers. Trees. Plants. We’ve always thought that we controlled them. But what if, in fact, they have been shaping us? Using this provocative question as a jumping off point, The Botany of Desire takes you on an eye-opening exploration of humans’ relationship with the plant world — as seen from the plant’s point of view. Based on Michael Pollan’s best-selling book of the same name and narrated by Frances McDormand (Fargo, Almost Famous), the special premieres Sunday, November 1 at 9 p.m.

The Botany of Desire examines the unique plant-human relationship through the stories of four familiar species and relates how they evolved to satisfy humans’ most basic yearnings. Linking fundamental human desires for sweetness, beauty, intoxication, and control with the plants that satisfy them – apples, tulips, marijuana, and potatoes — The Botany of Desire elucidates how humans are intricately woven into the web of nature and do not stand outside of it.

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2 responses
Diane F. Grannum -- October 27th, 2009 at 11:48 pm

Dear Producers, The Botany of Desire video synopsis exposes an exciting and transformative concept that the plants are in control. I personally have not been able to explain the intoxicating effect flowers have on me and my preoccupation with edible plants. Thanks for sharing this exotic theory. Ican’t wait to see the special.

Susanne Servin -- October 28th, 2009 at 11:54 am

I do not agree with M. Pollan that flowers are completely useless - they have a great purpose in our lives - when one is gardening or when one has some flowers in a vase in one’s house or apartment - they bring hope into our lives and joy!!!!!!!!

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