The entire first episode was on the theory of evolution. The way it was presented was that this was how it had happened as a proven fact, where as the "theory of evolution" is just a theory, and whilst flaws have been discovered in some of Darwin's work none of the uncertainties were mentioned.

The episode on the new born baby and the early years was the most informative, but again tainted by trying to push the theory of evolution again.

The episode on the teens was not as well done. It covered some of the changes through puberty, but more from the feelings of the teenagers rather than the biology. It didn't even come close to discussing basic sex education.

The episode on the brain was better, but none of the other organs of the body were discussed in the same level of detail (in fact most organs of the body never got a mention).

Two of the sensory organs were discussed, the eyes, and the ears, but that was more about how they can deteriorate with age rather than as an opportunity to inform how they work. The other 3 sensors weren't even mentioned.

Whilst the episode on death gave some useful insights, it spent too long on discussing the effects of G-Force and peoples perception of "near death experiences". Time that could have been better spent on topics more relevant to the human body.

The series did use some "ground breaking" techniques, these are now looking a bit dated.

The level seams to be aimed at older school children (14-16), but doesn't cover enough information to be a useful learning resource.

It's worth watching as some of it was interesting and well presented, but it would be more accuratly described as a the Theory of Evolution on The Human Body, rather than it's current title which suggests it should have more on the anatomy of the human body.

Fancy-looking entertainment
Review date: 2004-02-25 Rating: 2 out of 10

This series is most certainly not for adults with any more than a very rudimentary interest in the human body - its scope, despite the other reviewers' gushing, is extremely limited and very, very basic. I would have difficulty recommending this title to anyone older than GCSE age, and, in fact, would find it offensively patronising to particularly able children below that age. A depressing slip from the BBC, Ray Winstone simply doesn't have the clout of a David Attenborough or similar presenter, and accurately reflects a large degree of scientific dumbing-down in this country. The very fact that a fan of the programme can seem to consider what it contains to be scientific fact but deem evolution not to be, is a perfect advertisement for the intellectual level this series is aimed at. Very poor unless your education stopped before GCSE level.

Superb and avid viewing
Review date: 2003-03-24 Rating: 10 out of 10

A superb series which I watched with total interest on TV. When I became pregnant for the second time I just needed to watch it all over so bought the DVD set and haven't regretted it. There is something of interest for all ages from 3 - 100. My three year old found it fascinating watching the foetus growing inside the ladies tummy and this saved time on explanations from me! My husband just seemed to utter the sentence "It's amazing isn't it".

This is a learning experience for the whole family about the body, it's felings and most importantly how the brain works. You think you know most things and then you watch this!!!!

Product Details/Specifications