The Genius of Charles Darwin
In this three-part series Richard Dawkins, the evolutionary scientist and bestselling author, takes us on a journey of discovery. How does evolution work? How do we know it's true - and why do some people still deny it? As evolved creatures, do we have to be callous, selfish and immoral? Dawkins echoes Darwin's emphatic "no".
- 2008-2008
- 1 season
- Documentary
In this three-part series Richard Dawkins, the evolutionary scientist and bestselling author, takes us on a journey of discovery. How does evolution work? How do we know it's true - and why do some people still deny it? As evolved creatures, do we have to be callous, selfish and immoral? Dawkins echoes Darwin's emphatic "no".
Season 1 Episode Guide
3 Episodes 2008
Episode 1
Life, Darwin, & Everything
Fri, Aug 1, 2008 47 mins
Who was Charles Darwin, and how did he conceive his revolutionary idea? How does evolution work? Most important, why does it matter? Darwin's treatise, On the Origin of Species, represented the culmination of years of research and thought. And, the evidence confirming natural selection has continued to mount.
Episode 2
The Fifth Ape
Fri, Aug 1, 2008 46 mins
As a product of natural selection, the human species has nevertheless managed to transcend the evolutionary process by developing altruism. Dawkins explores the social and political implications of evolution--and how some proponents have misused science to promote genocide, eugenics, and ethnic cleansing.
Episode 3
God Strikes Back
Fri, Aug 1, 2008 47 mins
Despite overwhelming evidence, many religious fundamentalists around the world refuse to accept evolution. Face to face, Dawkins takes on those who would deny or attack Darwin's idea. Finally, Dawkins explains how people might find consolation in the idea of a world ruled by brutal natural forces rather than benign Creator.