Worlds Without End

I've stumbled across this recording on YouTube, of all places - here I thought that it was exclusively the domain of stupid pet tricks, drunken collegiates, and Premise Media*. But no - here's something really very cool.

I'm a huge fan of James Burke's writing and his television efforts. His latest book, American Connections: The Founding Fathers. Networked., is a fascinating look at American history - not bad for a man who is seventy-two this year. At any rate, in the interests of improving your moods and minds, here is the final episode of his 1985 series, The Day the Universe Changed, "Worlds Without End", which is scandalously unavailable on DVD as far as I'm aware. It is, however, sometimes to be found in libraries on VHS, if you're more traditional in your viewing habits.

In light of some of the manifestly ignorant things that are currently being bandied back and forth and called "science", Burke's eloquence and passion is a delight. His work was deeply formative on my thinking about history and science as a child, and I wish he'd get back into television today - he's sorely needed.

The YouTube version of Episode 10 is posted in five parts: links below:

Episode 10, Part 1

Episode 10, Part 2

Episode 10, Part 3

Episode 10, Part 4

Episode 10, Part 5

Did you enjoy it? Then check out the links to After the Warming, Burke's 1990-ish look at what might be the future of global climate change (which sadly didn't come to fruition as he hopefully predicted) and Connections on YouTube as well - or better still, purchase it and encourage the powers that be to release The Day the Universe Changed on DVD soon!

With thanks and much appreciation to YouTube user JamesBurkeFan - that's a tremendous public service that you're rendered - thanks!

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* Yes, that is intended to be hyperbole.