WLIW21 PBS
What's up at WLIW21
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.

Watch a video preview:

Watch bonus videos and learn more.

share | Comments (2)    Email    Print   

2 Responses to “See a Plant’s-Eye View of the World”

  1. Diane F. Grannum says:

    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.

  2. Susanne Servin says:

    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!!!!!!!!

Leave a Reply

Yes, send me WLIW21 Highlights by email

Please note that the WLIW21 editorial staff reserves the right to not post comments it deems to be inappropriate and/or malicious in nature, as well as edit comments for length, clarity and fairness. No solicitations or advertisements will be allowed. Users may link to other Web sites relevant to discussion, but most often links to commercial Web sites will not be permitted.
home about schedule video programs kids education events shop support pressroom station toolkit career opportunities internships pbs.org privacy policy contact
©2010 WNET.ORG Properties, LLC All Rights Reserved.    450 West 33rd Street    New York, NY 10001    visit WNET.ORG