Did you watch last night's episode of NOVA ScienceNOW? It was about the brain and I was really looking forward to seeing it. The promos implied that the show would focus on how the brain creates the illusion of consciousness. So I was amped when I tuned in. Unfortunately, it was a complete bust.
One thing I have to say at the outset is that I love Neil deGrasse Tyson. He can do no wrong and since he hosted the show, that was a big plus. Tyson is comfortable being a scientist, a showman, a funnyman -- whatever it takes. Science is lucky to have him in its ranks.
But the show focused on old research. I was shocked, really. They showed data that's been out there for a long time. Plus there were silly excursions to magic shows, and the episode relied on cartoons and other useless rot. (I've written before about science shows that include cartoons.) I didn't learn one new thing. Neurological research is uncovering secrets every day, but the show missed them all.
And I see that next week's show, on animal intelligence, is a rehash of an old PBS show featuring Alan Alda. I don't get it. Why show old stuff and make believe it's new? NOVA ScienceNOW? Meh.
One thing I have to say at the outset is that I love Neil deGrasse Tyson. He can do no wrong and since he hosted the show, that was a big plus. Tyson is comfortable being a scientist, a showman, a funnyman -- whatever it takes. Science is lucky to have him in its ranks.
But the show focused on old research. I was shocked, really. They showed data that's been out there for a long time. Plus there were silly excursions to magic shows, and the episode relied on cartoons and other useless rot. (I've written before about science shows that include cartoons.) I didn't learn one new thing. Neurological research is uncovering secrets every day, but the show missed them all.
And I see that next week's show, on animal intelligence, is a rehash of an old PBS show featuring Alan Alda. I don't get it. Why show old stuff and make believe it's new? NOVA ScienceNOW? Meh.
