That would work – if mass audiences in the US think being able to understand an intellectual channel (or even a channel that requires above-average intelligence) is a good thing. Unfortunately, the general public thinks knowing anything about science (or math or history) is not “cool”. You don’t want to be seen as nerdy or geeky, so you’re better off not knowing how many planets the solar system has. If you talk to them about Titan, they’ll think you are referring to the NFL team (the Tennessee Titans).

I don’t watch THC much now… discovered some great history podcasts and listen to that during commuting.

The History Channel is a great concept – too bad they are killing it I guess it’s just sheer lack of imagination – I am sure there are lot of good things they can do on a low budget, instead of those awful, boring historical movies..

I guess BBC America serves up what the general public wants. BBC World Service – which we cannot access in the UK – has Hard Talk, Digital Planet, Culture Shock on TV and some pretty good discussions on radio service too (a bit like Riz Khan’s programme used to be on CNN, only BBC’s moderation is much better).

However I must say that in the UK, the BBC’s offerings are pretty clear. Radio 4 and BBC 4 is where you head for good consistent cerebral stuff; rest is popular drama and other ‘entertainment’ with some surprises like Spooks or Coast to Coast etc. We also have Strictly Come Dancing (Dancing with Stars in the US I believe, it is the BBC’s most profitable format export).

Barbaad e gulistaan karne ko bas ek hee ullu kaafi tha
har shaakh pe ullu baitha hai, anjaam e gulistaan kya hoga…
Why do channels pander to the lowest common denominator, I wonder? If you try to please everyone, you usually end up pleasing no one, and you become incredibly boring. At least, that’s what seems to be happening to PBS. The Beeb’s format of having multiple channels addressing different target audiences might be a much better idea.

Trust me, the more you learn about space, the more you’ll find that your own imagination can supply endless possibilities. Reading a Douglas Adams or a Ray Bradbury will only whet that imagination.

Every time I think of canceling my subscription, they come up with a good show that makes me postpone canceling. But one good show every few months is not often enough

Someone mentioned PBS – “Nova” is a very good show and probably the only one I catch regularly.

//fond memories of Sagan’s “Cosmos”.

Public library DVDs – great idea. I don’t borrow DVDs as much as I should..
I have watched “Nova” a few times, but unfortunately, it’s not a very regular offering, and I never manage to watch it when it’s on

I remember watching the String Theory one! Was that on PBS? Yes, it was a great show, I loved it.

I missed that one I guess this is what happens if you rarely show good programs – even your good shows don’t get as many viewers as they deserve