Although the consequences of climate change may turn out to be sweeping and dire, experts say there is still time to counteract the worst effects -- provided positive steps are taken promptly. Thus pessimism in the face of daunting predictions is self-defeating, because it may sap people of the enthusiasm needed to undertake doable changes. This Humankind special cuts through misinformation and examines the consensus scientists have reached about the causes of the climate crisis and its possible ramifications. Then, a future that is both sustainable and attainable is described. And we hear the fascinating story of how one of the world's top climate scientists and his wife designed and built an elegant home that has become a national model of how to enjoy a comfortable life with minimal impact on the environment.

Meet Mattie Stepanek, the best-selling 11 year old poet, recorded prior to his death in 2004 from complications of muscular dystrophy. Hear his moving story and learn about his powerful philosophy of "Heartsongs." One of the remarkable things about Mattie was how, against significant challenges, he maintained a truly inspiring positive attitude. In this profile, Mattie breathes through a tracheotomy tube that is connected to an oxygen supply, and even though he had spent much of his young life in hospitals, he outlived many dire prognoses the doctors had given him.

Our program concludes with excerpts of powerful eulogies given for Mattie by former President Jimmy Carter and Oprah Winfrey, both of whom were smitten by the gentle message of peace from this remarkable soul, who was wiser than his years and whose life was cut too short.

America's founders recognized that that without a king, the fledgling nation would need an informed citizenry -- or their bold experiment in democracy would fail. So in early America the government subsidized newspapers, established the postal system to facilitate information flow and drew up plans for public education. But now in the digital age, does the demise of newspapers threaten citizens' access to quality journalistic information? Does remarkably low civic knowledge by average Americans weaken the fabric of democracy? This Humankind documentary features retired Supreme Court justice Sandra Day O'Connor, Pulitzer Prize-winning historians Gordon Wood and Annette Gordon-Reed, new media analyst Robert McChesney, voices of tourists at the Newseum, and others.

In 1989, after 26 years, Ahmed Kathrada was released from Robben Island, the South African prison for anti-apartheid leaders. He was the gentle jailmate of Nelson Mandela. This episode of Humankind presents an audio memoir of a life lived in hope, agony, and persistence. Hear about brutalities endured, healing forged, and humanity prevailing against all odds. Kathrada's story will provoke real questions, stark reflections, and a sense of admiration for a quiet hero.

Many great American authors have written vividly about war. But an examination of this literature, by Yeshiva University professor Cynthia Wachtell, reveals a wide variety of views by writers: some celebrate the valor of soldiers, others decry the brutality of warfare. Some writers do both, and we focus on them in this episode.

Cancer survivors and physicians specializing in mind/body medicine examine the “placebo effect” — the powerful role of a patient’s personal beliefs and hopes — in coping with the challenges of a serious illness.

Cancer survivors and physicians specializing in mind/body medicine examine the "placebo effect" -- the powerful role of a patient's personal beliefs and hopes -- in coping with the challenges of a serious illness.

Much in the tradition of ancient Persia's transcendentalist Rumi, "Ecstasy of the Heart" by contemporary Ceylonese lyrist Fuard Uduman borrows stunning images from nature to depict the inner human quest for God.

We hear excerpts from 'Escape Fire,' a powerful documentary that aired on CNN, along with comments by its young director, Matthew Heineman, about the over-scheduled work day of doctors and how too many pharmaceuticals don't make us better.

Youth leader Tajae Gaynor of the Bronx has dedicated his life to conflict resolution and school mediation activities after he witnessed the senseless stabbing of a friend.