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Smiley Virus
For many, the word virus is a synonym for
disease – diseases of humans, plants, and even
computers. Ebola is an example: a virus with a
big and terrifying reputation. And yet the vast
majority of viruses are not only friendly, they
are essential for life.
Find out how viruses make plant life in
Yellowstone’s hottest environments possible,
and fear your spinach salad no longer: a
scientist recruits viruses to defeat E. coli
bacteria.
Plus, a new study presents the disconcerting facts of just how far a sneeze travels,
and viruses in another kind of culture: but is ours benevolent? Find out from the man
who coined the term, “viral media.”
Guests:
• David Quammen – Science journalist, contributing writer for
National Geographic Magazine, author of Spillover: Animal
Infections and the Next Human Pandemic His Op Ed about
Ebola appeared in the New York Times.
• Marilyn Roossinck – Professor of plant pathology and
environmental microbiology, Penn State, Center for
Infectious Disease Dynamics
• Paul Ebner – Microbiologist and an associate professor of
animal sciences, Purdue University
• Lydia Bourouiba – Physical applied mathematician,
department of civil and environmental engineering, M.I.T.
• Douglas Rushkoff – Media theorist, author, Media Virus!
Hidden Agendas in Popular Culture and Present Shock:
When Everything Happens Now