ProfessorTom 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 each of the five lectures from various venues.
1: Brave Old World
From the Royal Institution, London. "We are not programmed to die, but to survive." Producer Sheila Cook. EditorGwyneth Williams WEBSITE: www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/reith2001 Repeated Saturday 10. 15pm
Views on what ageing means today: page 30 Dr Mark Porter on the Reith Lectures and advances in understanding what affects longevity: page 32