Computers and Doctor Who 93
Esther Schindler writes "We all know that the arts reflect the technology of their times. So let's look at The Doctor ('the definite article,' as Tom Baker said in December 1974) and his use of computers. Actually, for a show so closely associated with the Slashdot-techie lifestyle, Doctor Who didn't have much to do with computers early on. This article by Peter Salus traces the formative years: 'In January 1970, Jon Pertwee (Doctor #3) acquired a Cambridge scientist (Caroline John as Liz Shaw) as his companion, which might lead the unsuspecting viewer to think that a firmer computer science basis might ensue. But only in April did Liz exhibit her technical knowledge (by recognizing a Geiger counter reading).' And then we get to K-9....."
Fantasy more than SF (Score:5, Insightful)
I know people think of Doctor Who as SF, but it's really a fantasy series. The SF elements are only a mechanism for allowing the fantasy.
News for nerds (Score:4, Insightful)
For nerds? Definitely. /Tom Baker was my first Doctor.
Stuff that matters? Unquestionably.
News? Not so much
Re:Arthur C. Clarke (Score:2, Insightful)
I can't help but notice you got the point without getting the point...
Re:Fantasy more than SF (Score:4, Insightful)
However... With Dr. Who Smaller on the inside/Time traveling technology why would you need Digital Electronics?
So you get yourself a mechanical differential engine, the size of room. Have it in a time bubble a few million years in the past, in a room bigger on the inside. You don't need to worry about all those details about digital computing. You have a simple calculator which is easy to fix and maintain. Start the processing a millions of years ago, when it is done it sends the message to your current time, So no wait.
The biggest advantages of Digital Technology is Speed and Size. If you master space and time, These advantages mean little to you.