Worlds Within

Last night I went to the Body Worlds exhibit at the California Science Center with Devin and had one of the most eye-opening experiences of my short little life. At first, we didn't think we were going to get in, as the exhibit was sold out, but after the malfunctioning doors prevented us from exiting, we saw the light thanks to William and patrons who had returned their tickets.

The exhibit is a collection of plasticized human beings who have been preserved to show off their inner workings. Everything from the nervous and cardiovascular to reproductive and musculatory systems were on display in full detail. And when I say full detail, I mean it. The people were posed in various positions with their skin stripped from their bodies, showing which and where ligaments connected the muscles to the bones and how the internal organs are positioned inside of the body. One could see the nerves moving in and out of the muscles, along with major veins and arteries, and how everything connected to the brain. An absolutely fantastic display which really gave me an understanding of how intricate our bodies really are. Of course, like everyone else, I'd seen such things in biology books and things of that sort, but once it was right in front of me and the realization hit that the things I was looking at came from a formerly living person, I was absolutely and completely awe-struck. I don't know how to describe it in any other way.

The most amazing exhibit was that of a family of three who were composed of nothing except for their circulatory system. The blood vessels intertwined throughout the body and the outlines of the kidneys, heart, and brain could be seen due to the density of said structures in those locations. Also rather amazing, but slightly depressing, was a woman who had died while pregnant with the 7-month old child still in her womb. The exhibit also showcased the development of a baby while in the womb, with actual embryos taken from the progressive stages of pregnancy, ranging from one week to four or five months. After leaving, I had this overwhelming feeling, as if I had, for the first time, understood what life really was. If the exhibit ever comes to a city near you, pay the ten bucks and go; it's an experience you will never forget.

But, if you live in Los Angeles and missed it, don't fret...Body Worlds 2 is being exhibted at the California Science Center next weekend.