The Genius of Charles Darwin

The Genius of Charles Darwin (2008)

EndedDocumentary show

The Genius of Charles Darwin is a three-part television documentary, written and presented by evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins.

Network
Scheduleevery Monday (60 min)

Last Episode

God Strikes Back
Season 1Episode 360 min

God Strikes Back

In this final episode Dawkins examines why Darwin's theory remains one of the most controversial ideas in history. As Darwin set out on the voyage on the Beagle he still believed that god created the world and everything in it. But the evidence he discovered - fossils, patterns of anatomical resemblance, startling similarities of embryos and domestic breeding - demonstrated the truth: that all life forms vary and that some are more likely to reproduce, passing variations on. His wife Emma, however, was deeply religious and Darwin never criticized religion in public but he believed that "science would bring about a gradual illumination of minds". Today, Dawkins argues, science has the evidence to prove that evolution is true. Modern discovery of the DNA code which links all life has added to the mountain of evidence showing that evolution is a fact. So why, he wonders as he meets creationists in America, is opposition to evolution more aggressive than ever? Dawkins is also concerned that back in the UK teaching evolution has become a hugely sensitive issue for science teachers: "This is multicultural Britain. And one of its fault lines runs straight through our children's classrooms. How do we reconcile scientific truth with the deeply held convictions that bind religious communities?" Returning to the school he visited in episode one, Dawkins confronts the science teachers and challenges their view that they "can't get in to the business of knocking down kid's religions and the religions of families." "There really is", he says, "something special about scientific evidence. Science works; planes fly. Magic carpets and broomsticks don't. Gravity isn't a version of the truth; it is the truth. Anybody who doubts it is invited to jump out of a tenth floor window. Evolution too, is reality." This equivocation, Dawkins says, began with the Church of England who, rather than attack Darwin, embraced him in a "comfortable relativist fudge". So he meets the Archbishop of Canterbury to ask how he reconciles Darwin and the laws of physics with the miracles described in the bible. Finally, Dawkins travels to meet an old friend, Dan Dennett, who shares many of his own beliefs, to answer the question Darwin himself was confronted with: how can we find solace in a godless world?
Aug 18, 2008

Recent Episodes

EpisodeNameAirdate
S01E03God Strikes BackAug 18, 2008
S01E02The Fifth ApeAug 11, 2008
S01E01Life, Darwin & EverythingAug 4, 2008
View all episodesView all seasons

Frequently Asked Questions  Warning: Spoilers

When did The Genius of Charles Darwin premiere?

The Genius of Charles Darwin premiered on August 4, 2008.

Who is the host of The Genius of Charles Darwin?

The host of The Genius of Charles Darwin is Richard Dawkins.

What is the main focus of The Genius of Charles Darwin?

The main focus of The Genius of Charles Darwin is the life and work of Charles Darwin and his theory of evolution.

How many episodes are there in The Genius of Charles Darwin?

The Genius of Charles Darwin consists of three episodes.

What is the format of The Genius of Charles Darwin?

The Genius of Charles Darwin is a documentary series that explores Charles Darwin's life and his theory of evolution through scientific research and interviews.

Who are the key figures interviewed in The Genius of Charles Darwin?

The series features interviews with scientists, biologists, and experts in the field of evolution to provide insights into Charles Darwin's work and its impact.

What is the significance of The Genius of Charles Darwin in the context of science and evolution?

The Genius of Charles Darwin is significant in its portrayal of the impact of Darwin's theory of evolution on the scientific community and its relevance in the contemporary world.

What are some of the key themes explored in The Genius of Charles Darwin?

The series delves into themes such as natural selection, adaptation, biodiversity, and the implications of Darwin's theory on various scientific disciplines.

How was The Genius of Charles Darwin received by critics?

The series was well-received by critics, who praised its informative content and engaging presentation of Charles Darwin's life and work.

What is the intended audience for The Genius of Charles Darwin?

The Genius of Charles Darwin is aimed at audiences interested in science, evolutionary biology, and the life of Charles Darwin.

What are some of the locations featured in The Genius of Charles Darwin?

The series showcases various locations significant to Charles Darwin's life, such as the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands and the British countryside where Darwin conducted his research.

How does The Genius of Charles Darwin contribute to public understanding of science?

The series contributes to public understanding of science by presenting Darwin's theory of evolution in a compelling and accessible manner, making complex scientific concepts understandable to a broad audience.

What are some of the challenges and controversies discussed in The Genius of Charles Darwin?

The series addresses controversies surrounding Darwin's theory, including societal and religious implications, and challenges faced by Darwin in presenting his revolutionary ideas.

How does The Genius of Charles Darwin incorporate historical context into its narrative?

The series provides historical context by exploring the socio-political climate of Darwin's time, shedding light on the challenges he faced in introducing his theory of evolution.

What legacy does The Genius of Charles Darwin aim to leave in popular culture?

The series aims to leave a legacy of promoting scientific literacy and understanding of evolutionary biology, inspiring viewers to engage with Darwin's ideas and their impact on modern science.

Cast

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Characters

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Also known as

  • A zseniális Darwin (Hungary)

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