Explained: Unser Kopf

A documentary series on how our mind works, how it governs what we do and how it can be manipulated. Included are topics like memory, dreams, creativity, anxiety, drugs and how to focus.

A series that started off very interestingly with topics like memory, dreams, anxiety and psychedelics. The material seemed well-researched and the interviewees were clearly knowledgeable about the subject. Was also very relevant, as you could see how these effects and processes applied practically.

However, Season 2 was less objective. We had episodes like Teenage Brain and Brainwashing which were less about knowledge of the human brain and more about political agendas. The whole thing just felt less thorough and more an editorial.

How to Focus was really good though and I really enjoyed Creativity, largely because it had a detailed discussion on the Talking Heads song 'I Zimbra'!

The first three episodes were really interesting, and covered a good range of fascinating material. The episode on mindfulness wasn't bad, but relied more on practitioners and less on objective facts. But then, the episode on hallucinogens really pulled the series down. It relied on scant facts to pull together a case for further investigation into hallucinogens. Perhaps there's a case for this, but it didn't fit well into a series based much more on science and the mind in the natural world. There are so many aspects of the mind which could have been explored. This last episode also took away from some of what had been presented in the Mindfulness episode.

In an age in which the attention span of the consumer is constantly divided between a variety of devices and distractions, "The Mind, Explained" stands out as a great example of the new way to take on information. With expert opinions and interesting imagery interwoven through each episode - which each fall around the 20-min mark - this docuseries keeps you interested just long enough to pick up tidbits of information for parties and pique your interest on the incredible machine that is the brain, and if you wish to delve further you may do so at your own leisure.

Basic, surface level information - perhaps. But enough to be well worth the short time it asks.

Excellent clearly explained snapshot of each episode title, nicely compiled and great supporting visuals. Cool and informative little series.

The episodes of this show give you some easy-to-digest insight to lots of interesting topics ranging from dreams and psychedelics to personality and focus.

Not everything in this show is supremely scientific, but it gets your gears turning and allows you the chance to ask yourself some questions and consider making potential behavior changes. They're not "how to" guides, nor should they be viewed that way. Rather they have information in them meant to shed some light on intriguing topics of the mind, utilizing studies and field experts to help elevate the conversation.

Some of the episodes fall a little short, feeling a little too fluffed or maybe more socially driven than scientifically driven. But it's worth spending the 20-25 minutes per episode watching, listening, and being open-minded.