The Science of Measurement

This entertaining BBC Four-aired three-part nonfiction series looks at the history of the seven international units of measurement: time, length, mass, moles (i.e., amount of substance), light, heat, and electric current. Host Dr. Marcus du Sautoy, an Oxford mathematician, brings a distinctive mix of erudite knowledge and undisguised enthusiasm to his explanation of why mankind has been forever perplexed by the need to secure accurate measurements. Indeed, it appears that each new generation becomes more obsessed in gaining greater levels of precision in their measurements, with a wide array of new tools being created to guarantee that the correct figures are captured. The series serves up a jolly blend of science, history, psychology, mathematics, and droll commentary, and Dr. du Sautoy has the brilliant knack of explaining the most complex equations in a manner that provides clarification without severely dumbing down the concepts. Accompanied by a helpful viewer's guide, this wonderfully accessible production is highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (P. Hall)