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The Source: Bringing Back The Dead

Current Hardcover (Penguin Group)

The science of resuscitation has evolved. From the 18th-century practice of blowing smoke into a person's intestines to get them breathing again to CPR and later debrillators and the oft-heard cries of "Clear!" in every television medical drama.

In his book "Shocked: Adventures in Bringing Back the Recently Dead," Dr. David Casarett walks us through the history and science of resuscitation. He explores the wonders of a possible future, and how researchers are pushing us there.

The near-miracle cases of a few brought back from the other side have raised the public's belief  in the power of medicine to a Herculean level.  But what is the value of a life-at-all-cost strategy?

Guests:

  • Dr. David Casarett, palliative care specialist and associate professor at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
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Paul served at Texas Public Radio from 2011 to 2025, most recently leading the Accountability Desk.