Bill Nye Saves The World, And Explores Cannabis In America

On his Emmy-nominated Netflix show, “Bill Nye Saves the World,” the scientist and mechanical engineer takes on the topic of cannabis. Each episode in the series focuses on one controversial topic at a time, and features guest stars such as model Karlie Kloss, and astronaut Scott Kelly. Recent episodes explore computer science, sleep, and time travel.

The series’ second season kicks off as Nye turns his sights to the infamous herb, and delves into the science of cannabis. Nye spoke with “The San Francisco Chronicle” about the episode, which takes the scientist through the history of hemp, to dispensaries, and also features conversations with researchers and activists (including filmmaker, Kevin Smith).

Throughout the piece, Nye approaches the topic from a scientific perspective, and that of a taxpayer: “[I] would very much like to have some way to assess or evaluate driving while high,” he noted, also emphasising the need for more research.

When asked what he learned during the episode, Nye said: “[...] marijuana was made Schedule 1 to oppress or suppress poor people. That’s pretty well-documented.”

The future of policy, he added, lies in further understanding the plant, and its effects on human health.