Carl Sagan has been calling for the popularization of science since the 1980s. His call had been answered. Today, there are countless programs that have popularized science, making it a favorite subject for children and adults everywhere. America has been exposed to many branches of science, ranging from zoology to medicine to forensics, via the media. One of my favorite television programs was House (also known as House M.D.), something that certainly heightened my interest in medicine and human biology. I remember watching it, episode after episode, absolutely captivated.
The original concept for the show was for it to be a medical detective show, resembling popular programs such as NCIS, but with a medical theme. The creator, David Shore, compared it to a cop procedural. By adopting such a popular genre, House became one of the top ten rated shows in the United States. Dr. House, the show’s main character, was a witty, arrogant, medical genius. He and his team of doctors would work to accurately diagnose patients who were misdiagnosed. Each character was fully developed, with both strong strengths and flaws, making them realistic. House effectively drew the audience in, presenting lovable, engaging characters who are presented as geniuses in their own way. Their brilliance was inspiring. Episodes would revolve around rare and special diseases, giving off the impression that each patient had his or her own unique case. There was never a boring day in the hospital. The program would delve into the details of the disease, showing vivid images depicting what exactly was happening to the patient. The audience would be left amazed by such medical wonders.
At one point, House was the most watched television program in the world. Through such a popular show, science and medicine was spread to an unimaginable number of people. Although the show seems to be targeted towards a more mature audience, I know of many people, some as young as twelve years old, who have watched House. Who knows how many people were inspired by House?
House, M.D. : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/House_(TV_series)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0412142/
WRT 102.22: Science & Society 
