The Infinite Monkey Cage
Broadcast on BBC Radio 4
Monday 30 November to 20 December 2009 16:30-16:55

Physicist Brian Cox and comedian Robin Ince take a witty, irreverent and unashamedly rational look at the world through scientists' eyes.

Each week Brian and Robin will be joined by top scientists and some well-known science fans to talk about their view of the world – what has annoyed them; what has excited them; and why scientific reasoning can help in some of the most unlikely situations.

From the news agenda, to culture and politics, Brian, Robin and guests will be tackling life, the universe and everything, starting with the biggest question of all – what on Earth the title of the programme means!

Part 1 - Ex-cosmologist Dara O'Briain discusses why science seems to be such a fertile breeding ground for life as a comedian; Robin visits the archives of one of his all-time science heroes; and Brian tackles his personal mission to put science back at the heart of the political agenda.

Part 2 - Robin and Brian are joined by alien abduction expert Jon Ronson and Seth Shostack from the SETI Institute in California to discuss science conspiracies, UFOs and the search for ET.

Part 3 - Physicist turned comedian Ben Miller and science writer Philip Ball join Brian and Robin to discuss quantum physics, and if astrology really shares its roots with more scientific pursuits. They also discuss the largest scientific experiment ever undertaken, currently storming ahead in a large underground tunnel just outside Geneva.

Part 4 - Robin and Brian are joined by Victor Stock, Dean of Guildford Cathedral, and science journalist Adam Rutherford for a special Christmas edition of the programme. Adam explains why religion really could be good for your health, and can Victor convert Robin and Brian in time for the festive season?

Presenters/Brian Cox and Robin Ince, Producer/Alexandra Feachem

captured from iPlayer, 128kbps 44Khz, runtime 4 x 25 minutes