In recent years, the increase in quality television programming has included an increase in interesting series, especially for those who like to watch science-related content. Thanks to serials, science becomes accessible, intriguing and fun for all audiences.
A series on science you don’t want to miss
Cosmos: A Space-Time Odyssey (2014-)
If you have already seen the old one Cosmos by Carl Sagan, this will not let you down either. Hosted by astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, this is a sequel to the science popularizer and astrophysicist’s groundbreaking 1980 series. Explores the immensity and complexity of the universe. With stunning visuals, “Cosmos” takes viewers on a journey through space and time, exploring our place within the cosmos. There are 3 seasons in the new Cosmos Saga.
The Big Bang Theory (2007-2019)
This long-running sitcom, which ran for 12 seasons, It revolves around a group of friends, scientists from different fieldss, their environment, relationships… from a ‘nerd’ perspective. Although primarily a comedy, the series often incorporates real scientific theories and concepts into its storylines, with a particular focus on physics and astronomy, and features guest appearances by famous scientists, including the great theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking.
Planet Earth (2006)
This fantastic BBC natural history documentary series explores the wonders of our planet in stunning high definition. If you are interested in biology, ecology or the beauty of nature, this series is for you. Besides, Narrated by David Attenborough and Sigourney Weaver. There are 11 chapters.
Cosmos
Bill Nye Saves the World (2017-2018, Netflix)
Mechanical Engineer Bill Nye, the beloved “Science Guy”, the talk show aims to debunk pseudoscientific claims and myths on topics ranging from climate change to fad foods with the help of celebrity guests and science reporters. It has 3 seasons with 25 episodes.
The Code (2011, BBC)
This document series Immerse yourself in the world of mathematics, Explains how mathematical patterns and structures support the world around us. It covers topics such as fractals, the famous Fibonacci sequence, and the concept of infinity. There are 3 chapters.
Dinosaurs (1991 – 1994)
This family comedy presents a world full of anthropomorphic dinosaurs. Despite being a comedy series, Lets you enter the world of paleontology and the history of the earth In a very entertaining way.
Numbers (2005-2010)
This crime drama series tells the story A young mathematician uses his skills to solve complex criminal cases for the FBI. The series skillfully integrates mathematical concepts and theories across all its layers, making it a fun way to learn the subject. It shows how mathematical principles can be applied to solve real-world problems. It has 6 seasons and a total of 118 episodes.
Rotten (2018-2020, Netflix)
This documentary series explores the often disturbing truths behind the global food industry. During their two seasons, they are able to provide us with data on the science of food production, including agricultural practices. Food security and the environmental impact of our choices.
A recreation of the Big Bang Theory
Mind, Briefly (2019- Netflix)
To conclude, another documentary series, this time narrated by American actress Emma Stone, It provides a fascinating insight into the workings of our minds. Each chapter focuses on a different aspect of our brain function, such as dreams, anxiety and memory. It has 2 seasons.
Notes:
- Banks, J., & Dangle, J. (1990). Science Fiction: Technology on Primetime Television. Critical Studies in Media Communication, 7, 24-36. https://doi.org/10.1080/15295039009360161.
- Lo, Y., & Huang, C. (2021). Differences in knowledge, uncertainty, and social context in four medical television series from Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, and the United States. , 20. https://doi.org/10.22323/2.20010201.
- Barnett, M., Wagner, H., Gatling, A., Anderson, J., Houle, M., & Kafka, A. (2006). The effect of science fiction film on student understanding of science. Journal of Science Education and Technology, 15, 179-191. https://doi.org/10.1007/S10956-006-9001-Y.
- Southwell, B., & Torres, A. (2006). Bridging personal and mass communication: Science message exposure, science comprehension, and conversation. Communication Monographs, 73, 334 – 350. https://doi.org/10.1080/03637750600889518.
