Horizon Season 1983 Episode 7 British Science - On the Wrong Track?

British Science - On the Wrong Track? is the seventh episode of the 1983 season of the television series Horizon. The episode explores the state of science in Britain at the time and whether or not it was on the right track.

The episode starts by highlighting the historical importance of British science, from the discovery of penicillin to the splitting of the atom. However, the narrator questions whether or not this legacy is being continued in the present day. He introduces a number of scientists who argue that British science is in decline.

Some of the scientists point to the lack of investment in research and development as a major problem. They argue that other countries, like Japan and the United States, are investing more money in science and as a result, they are making greater progress. The narrator also highlights the issue of brain drain, where talented scientists leave the UK to work abroad, often because they can get better funding for their work.

Another problem discussed in the episode is the decline in science education. A number of scientists argue that there is a lack of interest in science among young people in the UK. They believe that this is partly due to the way science is taught in schools, which often focuses on memorizing facts rather than developing critical thinking skills.

The episode also explores the issue of the commercialization of science. Several scientists argue that there is too much emphasis on the commercial potential of scientific research, rather than its social benefits. They believe that science should be driven by a desire to understand the world around us, rather than by profit.

Despite these concerns, the episode also highlights some of the successes of British science at the time. For example, the episode takes a look at the pioneering work being done at the Sanger Centre to map the human genome. It also looks at the development of new plastics that could be used to replace metal in cars, making them more fuel-efficient.

Throughout the episode, the narrator speaks to a range of experts, including scientists, politicians, and educators. He also takes the viewer on a tour of some of the country's leading research institutions, including the University of Cambridge and the Royal Society.

In the end, the episode leaves the question of whether or not British science is on the wrong track open for interpretation. While there are certainly issues that need to be addressed, there are also reasons to be optimistic. The development of new technologies, such as computers and biotechnology, offer exciting possibilities for the future of science in Britain.

Overall, British Science - On the Wrong Track? provides a thought-provoking look at the state of science in the UK during the early 1980s. While some of the issues discussed in the episode may no longer be relevant today, the episode raises important questions about the role of science in society and the need for continued investment in research and development.