The Secret Genius of Modern Life

20223 seriesEntertainment / Factual
Available on
BBC Two

Mathematician and television presenter Hannah Fry hosts a series revealing the miraculous technologies that define the modern world. Seemingly ordinary inventions, like the bank card, have fascinating stories to tell about their origins, proliferation, and their role in shaping the world as we know it today. While celebrating the convenience these objects often bring into our lives, Hannah also casts a critical eye to their less savoury real-world impacts, asking whether all this technology can come without a deeper cost to society.

Air Fryer: Episode Image
Episode 1Air Fryer

Hannah looks at the air fryer – a device that is rapidly taking over people's kitchens.

Fridge: Episode Image
Episode 2Fridge

Hannah hits the production line to find the lifeblood at the heart of every fridge.

Rollercoaster: Episode Image
Episode 3Rollercoaster

Hannah Fry uncovers the wild origins of the modern-day rollercoaster.

Doorbell: Episode Image
Episode 4Doorbell

Hannah heads to Los Angeles to take a deep dive into doorbell history.

Motorway: Episode Image
Episode 5Motorway

Hannah drives to the National Highways control centre for the UK’s busiest motorway.

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