Genius of the Modern World

Genius of the Modern World (2016)

EndedDocumentary showHistory

Historian Bettany Hughes retraces the lives of three great thinkers whose ideas shaped the modern world: Karl Marx, Frederick Nietzsche and Sigmund Freud.

Born in the 19th century, they lived through a time when old certainties were breaking down. Regimes were overthrown by mass uprisings, science was undermining religious authority. Their challenge was to figure out what makes us human in a fast-evolving world.

Network
Scheduleevery Thursday at 21:00 (60 min)

Last Episode

Freud
Season 1Episode 360 min

Freud

Historian Bettany Hughes retraces the lives of three great thinkers whose ideas shaped the modern world.

This time she travels to Vienna on the trail of Sigmund Freud - the father of psychoanalysis.

Freud's influence surrounds us today. We take it for granted that we should be able to talk openly about our deepest feelings, from sexual difference to our inner demons. Plus phrases such as the Oedipus Complex, repression and wish fulfillment have become part of our everyday language.

Yet Freud's career was riven with controversy. His early research into cocaine almost ruined his reputation, and his theories about childhood sexuality have been fiercely debated.

Freud was a pioneer in the study of the human mind. Working as a young doctor in the 1880s, he became fascinated by the medical conundrums of nervous conditions like hysteria.

Believing these illnesses had deep-seated psychological causes, his psychoanalytic talking cure addressed deep-seated emotional issues that had seldom been discussed openly before.

Freud believed that psychoanalysis and dream-analysis could reveal hidden aspects of the mind. It's from Freud that we get the idea of the unconscious mind, where repressed emotions, irrational primal desires, and complex feelings about our parents bubble beneath the surface of consciousness.

Jun 30, 2016

Recent Episodes

EpisodeNameAirdate
S01E03FreudJun 30, 2016
S01E02NietzscheJun 23, 2016
S01E01MarxJun 16, 2016
View all episodesView all seasons

Frequently Asked Questions  Warning: Spoilers

When did the TV show 'Genius of the Modern World' premiere?

'Genius of the Modern World' premiered in the year 2016.

Who are the main hosts or presenters of 'Genius of the Modern World'?

The main hosts or presenters of 'Genius of the Modern World' are Bettany Hughes, Richard Dawkins, and James Fox.

What is the genre of 'Genius of the Modern World'?

'Genius of the Modern World' falls under the genre of documentary.

How many episodes does 'Genius of the Modern World' have?

'Genius of the Modern World' consists of three episodes.

Who is the target audience for 'Genius of the Modern World'?

'Genius of the Modern World' caters to viewers interested in history, science, and intellectual exploration.

What is the premise of 'Genius of the Modern World'?

'Genius of the Modern World' explores the lives and ideas of three influential thinkers: Friedrich Nietzsche, Sigmund Freud, and Karl Marx.

How does 'Genius of the Modern World' portray these historical figures?

'Genius of the Modern World' provides an in-depth analysis of Nietzsche, Freud, and Marx, shedding light on their philosophical contributions and their impact on society.

How does 'Genius of the Modern World' use visuals to enhance the storytelling?

'Genius of the Modern World' incorporates historical footage, reenactments, and visual representations to immerse viewers in the world of these influential thinkers.

What are some of the major themes explored in 'Genius of the Modern World'?

'Genius of the Modern World' delves into themes such as existentialism, psychoanalysis, Marxism, and the development of modern philosophy.

How does 'Genius of the Modern World' present the historical context surrounding these thinkers?

'Genius of the Modern World' provides a comprehensive understanding of the social, political, and cultural circumstances that shaped the ideas of Nietzsche, Freud, and Marx.

What were some of the challenges faced by the hosts in presenting 'Genius of the Modern World'?

Throughout 'Genius of the Modern World', the hosts navigate the complex ideas and controversial legacies of Nietzsche, Freud, and Marx, presenting them in an accessible and engaging manner.

How does 'Genius of the Modern World' engage the audience intellectually?

'Genius of the Modern World' challenges viewers to consider the impact of these visionary thinkers and their ideas on the modern world, encouraging critical thinking and introspection.

What is the critical reception of 'Genius of the Modern World'?

'Genius of the Modern World' has been praised for its informative and thought-provoking content, with critics commending the hosts' presentations and the show's ability to make complex ideas accessible.

How does 'Genius of the Modern World' contribute to the understanding of intellectual history?

By exploring the lives and ideas of Nietzsche, Freud, and Marx, 'Genius of the Modern World' offers valuable insights into the development of philosophical and social thought in the modern era.

What sets 'Genius of the Modern World' apart from other documentary series?

'Genius of the Modern World' stands out due to its focus on three influential figures and its exploration of their impact on modern society, making it a captivating and unique viewing experience.

How does 'Genius of the Modern World' resonate with contemporary audiences?

'Genius of the Modern World' prompts viewers to reflect on the relevance of Nietzsche, Freud, and Marx's ideas in today's world, fostering discussions about the ongoing influence of these thinkers.

Cast

Bettany Hughes

Bettany Hughes

plays herself
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Characters

Presenter

Presenter

played by Bettany Hughes
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