Formal conventions in British science television, 1955-1965

Authors

  • Tim Boon Science Museum, London

Keywords:

Science on television, documentary films, popularization, science communication, film techniques.

Abstract

This essay considers two significant subgenres of British television science coverage in the foundational period 1955-1965, looking in detail at the series Look for natural history and Eye on Research for the sciences more broadly. In each case, I consider the contributors to the programmes, both producers and participants; the origins of the programme; and formal aspects, to consider how the series related to
their predecessor and successor programmes. In each case I consider where the authority of the account of science rests in the programmes. In alluding to what came after these two series, I introduce some first thoughts about the role of the scientistpresenter in science television.

Keywords: Science on television, documentary films, popularization, science communication, film techniques.

Author Biography

Tim Boon, Science Museum, London



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Issue

Vol. 7 (2014)

Section

Dossier: Science on Television

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