How We Got To Now with Steven Johnson is a six part documentary series that reveals the story behind the remarkable ideas that made modern life possible; the unsung heroes that brought them into the world, and the unexpected and bizarre consequences each of these innovations has triggered.
Funded by CPB
02:07
Steven introduces how the series can be used to inspire innovation in the classroom.
02:50
Steven discusses the various themes and innovations explored in the series.
03:49
Steven looks back at some of his most memorable moments during the filming of the series.
04:59
Rather than a series of 'lightbulb moments', ideas can sometimes take a little longer!
04:55
How did chlorination help purify drinking water in America?
02:51
Steven explains how we developed a global system of standardized time.
04:26
Introducing Harvey Fletcher, the man who invented a meter to measure noise pollution.