Horizon Season 1987 Episode 3 The Blind Watchmaker

The Horizon season 1987 episode 3 entitled The Blind Watchmaker is a thought-provoking and insightful documentary that explores the concept of evolution and the theory of natural selection. The program is based on the book of the same name written by noted biologist and writer Richard Dawkins.

The central theme of the program revolves around the idea that complexity in the natural world is not the result of a divine creator but is rather a product of natural selection acting upon random genetic mutations. Dawkins believes that the complexity and diversity of life on Earth can all be explained through the principles of evolution and that the blind forces of nature are responsible for shaping the world we live in today.

Throughout the program, Dawkins explains the basic tenets of the theory of natural selection and demonstrates its significance through a series of fascinating examples. He explains how the beak of the woodpecker has evolved to extract insects from tree bark and how the hollow bones of the bird are a result of its need to be lightweight for efficient flight.

The program also examines the fossil record and how it provides compelling evidence for the validity of the theory of evolution. The program takes the viewer on a journey through time, from the early forms of life that arose billions of years ago to the complex organisms that inhabit the planet today.

One of the highlight segments of the program is the discussion of the so-called "Cambrian Explosion." This period in Earth's history is notable for the sudden appearance of a wide variety of complex and diverse organisms. Dawkins explores this phenomenon and provides a plausible explanation for it through the principles of natural selection and the gradual accumulation of genetic complexity.

The documentary also provides a strong rebuttal to creationist theories that promote intelligent design as an explanation for life's complexity. Dawkins argues that the blind forces of nature, combined with an extraordinary amount of time, can explain even the most complex biological structures.

The Blind Watchmaker is a fascinating and illuminating program that will leave viewers with a greater appreciation of the natural world around us. It encourages viewers to question their assumptions and opens up new avenues for exploration and understanding in the field of evolutionary biology.

Overall, this episode of Horizon is an excellent introduction to the theory of natural selection and is a must-watch for anyone interested in the workings of the natural world and the nature of life itself. With expert commentary, engaging visuals, and thought-provoking ideas, The Blind Watchmaker is a standout documentary that continues to be relevant and impactful to this day.