Dangerous Knowledge

Synopsis: A sympathetic portrayal of the genius of four brilliant mathematicians and their attempts to unravel the mysteries of the universe with tragic repercussions for their sanity. This programme addresses some of the 21st century’s profound questions about the true nature of reality. Covers Georg Cantor, Ludwig Boltzmann, Kurt Gödel and Alan Turing - whose genius has profoundly affected us, but which tragically drove them insane and eventually led to them all committing suicide.
Language: English
Country: Great Britain
Year of release: 2008
Year of production: 2007
Notes: Broadcast on BBC4 on 8/8/2007.
Documentation: The library section of the website http://www.becauseyouthink.tv/library/default.asp will shortly provide subscribers (free) with extensive documentation on the thinking behind the programme, comprehensive research notes, comment and further information on the films.
Subjects: Mathematics; Physics; Psychiatry; Psychology
Keywords: mathematicians; mental disorders; philosophy of science; Turing, Alan; mathematical concepts; genius; Cantor, Georg; Gödel, Kurt; Boltzmann, Ludwig

Name: becauseyouthink.tv
Web: http://www.becauseyouthink.tv/ External site opens in new window
Notes: Exclusive source of thought-provoking television documentaries by David Malone, accompanied on the website by producer and director notes for research purposes, as well source material used in the productions. Topics covered so far include the use of stem cells in regenerative medicine, the relationship between science and religion, and the mental health of eminent scientists. Programmes are currently for sale on DVD, but online streaming is planned.

Name: Uniview Worldwide
Email: sales@uniview.co.uk
Web: http://www.uniview.co.uk External site opens in new window
Phone: 0151 648 9988
Address: PO Box 20
Hoylake
Wirral
CH48 7HY
Notes: NB. Uniview ceased trading at the end of July 2016. Some of the products previously distributed by them are available from Short Cuts TV: http://www.shortcutstv.com/

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British Universities Film & Video Council