Genius of Britain: The Scientists Who Changed the World

The first person to review this series has already presented a good summary and addressed many of the points I would have raised myself. So I'll be brief. I believe that the focus on British scientists was due to one of the aims of the series being to popularize science (and engineering) in Britain. The title itself - Genius of Britain - clearly shows this. As a Briton, I found myself feeling proud of my country - if I were a teenager deciding on which A-levels of degree to take, then watching this series just might influence my decision in favour of science and engineering subjects. However, I'm an adult with two science degrees and a deep interest in history - for me, the series was entertaining but intellectually unsatisfying. But it is, after all, television. If you have more than a passing interest in any of these scientists or about the history of modern science then read a book or two. Given the limitations of the video format, I think Genius of Britain was a moderate success. If it had gone into more depth then it would have struggled to present visual content other than the talking heads of the scientists and inventor who present the programme. If it had discussed the scientists concerned in a more global context then it would generate less pride in British science.