Professor Tom Kirkwood , this year's Reith lecturer, explores the topic of ageing. Professor of Medicine and head of the department of gerontology at the University of Newcastle, he examines the impact of science on the human lifespan - both now and in the future. Sue Lawley introduces this concluding lecture from the International Centre for Life, Newcastle upon Tyne. New Directions
"We are at a turning point. The decisions we take in the next few years will have far-reaching consequences forthe state of future society." Producer Sheila Cook. Editor Gwyneth Williams WEBSITE: www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/reith2001 Repeated Saturday 10.15pm