Best Of: Brittney Griner / Discovering Plant Intelligence
May 11, 2024
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Brittney Griner, the WNBA star and two-time Olympic gold medalist, shares her harrowing story of nearly a year in a Russian prison, detailing the mental and physical struggles she endured. She reflects on her path to recovery and her new memoir, 'Coming Home.' Meanwhile, climate journalist Zoë Schlanger discusses her book 'The Light Eaters,' diving into the fascinating world of plant intelligence. She explores how plants communicate and respond to their environment, challenging perceptions of consciousness in the natural world.
Brittney Griner shares her traumatic 300-day ordeal in Russian prisons over cannabis misunderstanding.
Exploration of plant intelligence challenges traditional views, highlighting their communication and responses to stimuli.
Deep dives
Brittany Griner's Experience in Russian Prisons
Brittany Griner, WNBA star and two-time Olympic gold medalist, shares her harrowing 300-day experience in Russian prisons due to a misunderstanding involving medically prescribed cannabis. Griner faced intrusive questioning during psychiatric evaluations and the threat of placement in a psych ward, shedding light on her traumatic ordeal.
Plant Intelligence and Communication
Exploring plant intelligence, researchers have delved into the complex ways plants communicate and exhibit intelligent behaviors. Plants can sense external stimuli, respond to touch through defensive mechanisms, and even emit signals to attract parasitic wasps to combat caterpillar threats. This emerging research challenges traditional views and redefines our understanding of plant capabilities.
Zoe Schlanger's Book 'The Light Eaters'
In Zoe Schlanger's book 'The Light Eaters,' the unseen world of plant intelligence is unveiled, offering a fresh perspective on life on Earth. Schlanger delves into the debates surrounding plant consciousness and agency, questioning traditional definitions and opening up new possibilities in exploring plant behavior and interaction with the environment.
Implications for Climate Reporting and Environmental Conservation
Studying plant intelligence can deepen our connection to the natural world and foster a sense of wonder and respect for the intricate ecosystems around us. This newfound perspective can inspire a renewed commitment to environmental conservation and climate action, highlighting the importance of preserving biodiversity and recognizing the inherent value of all living organisms.
WNBA star Brittney Griner talks about the physical and emotional hell of her nearly 300 days in Russian prisons. Russian authorities apprehended Griner at the Moscow Airport when she was found carrying a tiny amount of medically prescribed cannabis — then charged her with drug smuggling. Her memoir is Coming Home.
Jazz historian Kevin Whitehead reviews a 1959 Sonny Rollins reissue.
And we'll talk about plant intelligence with climate journalist Zoë Schlanger. Her book is The Light Eaters.