Evolution

There is perhaps no other topic in science that courts as much controversy and debate as evolution. Evolution goes far beyond simply documenting the origins of the theory, from its formulation by Charles Darwin and his contemporaries to modern discoveries in genetic science. It also examines how evolution continues to shape life today and explores the perceived conflicts between evolutionary science and religious belief.

Narrated by Irish actor Liam Neeson, the series begins by recounting Darwin’s life and his seismic idea, investigating why the theory he developed may be even more significant today than it was in his own time. It then traces how life gradually transformed from its unicellular beginnings into a diverse array of complex and highly adapted organisms inhabiting every environment on Earth. The documentary also examines, in great detail, the mass extinction events that have come close to eliminating life on the planet in the past.

Evolution explores sex as one of the most remarkable developments life produced in its relentless drive towards diversity and survival. The rise of humans is also given extensive coverage. The series concludes with an insightful examination of how people of faith continue to grapple with reconciling religious belief and scientific understanding.