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Cosmos - The Complete Collection (DVD, 2002, 7-Disc Set)
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Rating: Not Rated
Release Date: Oct 2002
Format: DVD
Additional Info: 7-Disc Set
UPC: 804387101097
Product ID: EPID3400954
Description: Carl Sagan explores the universe in this monumental cosmic journey. A fascinating blend of science, education, and entertainment that covers everything from the cells which build life to the Big Bang that started it all. 13 episode on se...
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Top Reviews
Excellent for both children and adults!
) 
16 of 19 people found this review helpful.
Carl Sagan's "Cosmos" is nothing short of wonderful. If you have not already read the book, I highly recommend it. It covers the same material as the DVD's, but in a different manner.
As for the DVD's, they are based upon Carl Sagan's television series of the same name, but with a number of updates added since the shows were first aired. Carl Sagan has a unique and brilliant way of breaking down some of the most complex concepts of science in a way that is understandable even to children. He also has a sincere fondness for all areas of science and the history of scientific study, and it is this enthusiasm and wonder that most impress and enlighten. His enthusiasm is contagious and you will find yourself glued to the screen as Mr. Sagan unlocks the wonders of the universe for you.
Though the Cosmos series (and book) is most well known for its exploration of space and astronomy, it also delves into the wonders of the human body, our planet, and the scientists of our distant past as it traces the evolution of scientific understanding down through the ages. It is a shame that Mr. Sagan has since passed away, but we can take solace in the knowledge that his contributions will live on, enlightening generations to come.
The DVD's, though somewhat dated in their level of special effects and general presentation, are highly recommended for both adults and children. There is no objectionable material that I can think of, but there is a great deal of knowledge and wonder to be gained. My wife and I both have science degrees, but we still found much to learn and enjoy with repeated viewings. These DVD's will bring hours upon hours of enjoyment for the whole family.
**On an interesting side note, see if you don't agree that Mr. Sagan's voice was the inspiration for the Agent Smith character in "The Matrix" films. Hugo Weaving (the actor who played Agent Smith) certainly seems to be channeling Carl Sagan in his voice inflection and mannerisms...it's almost uncanny!
As for the DVD's, they are based upon Carl Sagan's television series of the same name, but with a number of updates added since the shows were first aired. Carl Sagan has a unique and brilliant way of breaking down some of the most complex concepts of science in a way that is understandable even to children. He also has a sincere fondness for all areas of science and the history of scientific study, and it is this enthusiasm and wonder that most impress and enlighten. His enthusiasm is contagious and you will find yourself glued to the screen as Mr. Sagan unlocks the wonders of the universe for you.
Though the Cosmos series (and book) is most well known for its exploration of space and astronomy, it also delves into the wonders of the human body, our planet, and the scientists of our distant past as it traces the evolution of scientific understanding down through the ages. It is a shame that Mr. Sagan has since passed away, but we can take solace in the knowledge that his contributions will live on, enlightening generations to come.
The DVD's, though somewhat dated in their level of special effects and general presentation, are highly recommended for both adults and children. There is no objectionable material that I can think of, but there is a great deal of knowledge and wonder to be gained. My wife and I both have science degrees, but we still found much to learn and enjoy with repeated viewings. These DVD's will bring hours upon hours of enjoyment for the whole family.
**On an interesting side note, see if you don't agree that Mr. Sagan's voice was the inspiration for the Agent Smith character in "The Matrix" films. Hugo Weaving (the actor who played Agent Smith) certainly seems to be channeling Carl Sagan in his voice inflection and mannerisms...it's almost uncanny!
Review ID: 10000000001202604
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Science is now Dated; and Too Much New-Age ReligionReview created: 12/20/08(updated 05/11/09)
by:
) 3 of 7 people found this review helpful.
Carl Sagan's "Cosmos", originally released in 1989, is now well over 20-year-old material, and astronomy has moved on a long way since the eighties.
Based on the television series of the same name, Cosmos' scope and focus is good, although the graphics are now unfortunately dated. Thus the series can best be recommended as a sort of historical astronomy primer: it is definitely not cutting edge. Sagan does have a captivating way of presenting the complex concepts of astronomy, and his enthusiasm is contagious. That's the best part. He got a lot of folks interested in science rather than skateboards.
On the other hand, I find the heavy mixture of his religious ideas into the material annoying. The repetitive "We have all evolved from goo yet are now on our way to becoming gods who control the universe!" paradigm is hidden religious content presented without the presence of any contrary position. Such assumptions as alien evolution, human space & time travel, and 'what-if' human evolution are other wild leaps that I have difficulty stomaching in what is billed as educational/scientific material. Such speculation is actually new-age propaganda that's being transmitted under the radar. So far, there just isn't any science behind these ideas, just the assumption that since we're here, we must be evolving into gods!
Let's just stick to the facts of science for now: When science can explain why Polonium halos exist in granite, why no supernovas have yet sterilized earth, why the helium content of the atmosphere is still increasing, why there are no transitional fossils, why the salt content of the oceans is so low despite a yearly increase, why human DNA continues to rapidly unravel at the ends (yet we're here), why it would take 600 beneficial mutations per generation to go from chimp to man in 2 million years (then find a mate with the same), why the sun continues to shrink yet was 'perfectly safe' 3 billion years ago, why the mathematics of evolution are absolutely totally mind boggling (an exponent of SIX digits!!!) - then I'll believe the assumptions behind your religion Carl.
Based on the television series of the same name, Cosmos' scope and focus is good, although the graphics are now unfortunately dated. Thus the series can best be recommended as a sort of historical astronomy primer: it is definitely not cutting edge. Sagan does have a captivating way of presenting the complex concepts of astronomy, and his enthusiasm is contagious. That's the best part. He got a lot of folks interested in science rather than skateboards.
On the other hand, I find the heavy mixture of his religious ideas into the material annoying. The repetitive "We have all evolved from goo yet are now on our way to becoming gods who control the universe!" paradigm is hidden religious content presented without the presence of any contrary position. Such assumptions as alien evolution, human space & time travel, and 'what-if' human evolution are other wild leaps that I have difficulty stomaching in what is billed as educational/scientific material. Such speculation is actually new-age propaganda that's being transmitted under the radar. So far, there just isn't any science behind these ideas, just the assumption that since we're here, we must be evolving into gods!
Let's just stick to the facts of science for now: When science can explain why Polonium halos exist in granite, why no supernovas have yet sterilized earth, why the helium content of the atmosphere is still increasing, why there are no transitional fossils, why the salt content of the oceans is so low despite a yearly increase, why human DNA continues to rapidly unravel at the ends (yet we're here), why it would take 600 beneficial mutations per generation to go from chimp to man in 2 million years (then find a mate with the same), why the sun continues to shrink yet was 'perfectly safe' 3 billion years ago, why the mathematics of evolution are absolutely totally mind boggling (an exponent of SIX digits!!!) - then I'll believe the assumptions behind your religion Carl.
Review ID: 10000000009856418
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Money very well spentReview created: 01/10/08
by:
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.
This is the best series I have ever seen, a real masterpiece. If you think you may find it interesting, don't hesitate for a moment and buy these DVDs now. No intellectually curious person could conceivably be disappointed by this piece of work.
Are you interested in our origins and those of our fellow living beings, our planet and our Universe? and in the origins of our knowledge and intelligence? want to know about our place in the Universe and whether we could have some neighbors out there in the stars? and what about our future and that of our planet, solar system and Universe? You will have a hard time finding better answers to these questions than those given by Carl Sagan in Cosmos. And it is remarkable how almost everything remains as true today as it was more than 20 years ago when Cosmos first appeared.
Images are often spectacular and music sublime. I recommend that you view these DVDs with the lights off and in a quiet environment. This is the best way for you to let Dr. Sagan guide you on this grand voyage of the imagination, which, among other places, will take you to the planets, stars and galaxies, the early Universe, to ancient Greece and Egypt, to the Great Library of Alexandria or to India and eighteenth century Holland.
Many of the 13 chapters have updates at the end. The updates were added in the 1990s, but there is, as far as I can tell, only one instance where even the update is outdated: small anisotropies were finally found in the cosmic microwave background radiation in the late nineties (Sagan died 1996), thus solving the mystery of how galaxies could have formed from a Universe that was initially very homogeneous. In any case, as I said, Sagan's words are, with very few exceptions, as valid today as they were 20 years ago.
Enjoy!
Are you interested in our origins and those of our fellow living beings, our planet and our Universe? and in the origins of our knowledge and intelligence? want to know about our place in the Universe and whether we could have some neighbors out there in the stars? and what about our future and that of our planet, solar system and Universe? You will have a hard time finding better answers to these questions than those given by Carl Sagan in Cosmos. And it is remarkable how almost everything remains as true today as it was more than 20 years ago when Cosmos first appeared.
Images are often spectacular and music sublime. I recommend that you view these DVDs with the lights off and in a quiet environment. This is the best way for you to let Dr. Sagan guide you on this grand voyage of the imagination, which, among other places, will take you to the planets, stars and galaxies, the early Universe, to ancient Greece and Egypt, to the Great Library of Alexandria or to India and eighteenth century Holland.
Many of the 13 chapters have updates at the end. The updates were added in the 1990s, but there is, as far as I can tell, only one instance where even the update is outdated: small anisotropies were finally found in the cosmic microwave background radiation in the late nineties (Sagan died 1996), thus solving the mystery of how galaxies could have formed from a Universe that was initially very homogeneous. In any case, as I said, Sagan's words are, with very few exceptions, as valid today as they were 20 years ago.
Enjoy!
Review ID: 10000000005097786
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Cosmos by Carl Sagan....A True Classic !Review created: 12/31/06(updated 12/31/06)
by:
) 3 of 4 people found this review helpful.
Cosmos (the series) is fundamentally about how us humans have sought to understand the workings of the universe. It does not overload the viewer with details, but rather describes "the big picture."
This DVD set is a true classic for young and old. Great for all ages, children and adults. It has won numerous awards: three Emmy's, a Hugo, a Peabody --- and was the most watched PBS special on TV for about 10 years.
The DVD set offers all 13 episodes with music and visuals, that takes the viewer on a journey of space and time. Each episode is fresh and readily understandable. Completely packed with historical re-enactments, facts and theories complete with on location commentaries, the series helps contextualize science and people who made the great discoveries. Some of it ( quite honestly) is kind of dated, but most of the core science facts really hasn't changed. I must admitt the "spaceship of imagination" is kind of a bit corny though.
I still remember seeing Carl Sagan on TV in the early 1980's. His unique vision to make science understandable and exciting, is still with me today. And again in 1993, when I met him after a lecture that he gave, I had brief conversation (yes I was floating). He was a professor with an extraordinary gift for teaching and inspiration. Eloquent,entertaining, informative,charismatic and intelligent.Although many have painted a darker side of this gifted man since his death, I still think he was a natural communicator,brilliant writer as well as a tremendous astronomer.
Carl Sagan, both in DVD or in book, had the ability to mix history and science through different locations in the world. He had the ability to capture the brilliant beauty that surrounds us. This series could definately be the best general science series ever broadcast on TV.An if the episodes seem a bit took long, well there is always scene selection !
This DVD set is a true classic for young and old. Great for all ages, children and adults. It has won numerous awards: three Emmy's, a Hugo, a Peabody --- and was the most watched PBS special on TV for about 10 years.
The DVD set offers all 13 episodes with music and visuals, that takes the viewer on a journey of space and time. Each episode is fresh and readily understandable. Completely packed with historical re-enactments, facts and theories complete with on location commentaries, the series helps contextualize science and people who made the great discoveries. Some of it ( quite honestly) is kind of dated, but most of the core science facts really hasn't changed. I must admitt the "spaceship of imagination" is kind of a bit corny though.
I still remember seeing Carl Sagan on TV in the early 1980's. His unique vision to make science understandable and exciting, is still with me today. And again in 1993, when I met him after a lecture that he gave, I had brief conversation (yes I was floating). He was a professor with an extraordinary gift for teaching and inspiration. Eloquent,entertaining, informative,charismatic and intelligent.Although many have painted a darker side of this gifted man since his death, I still think he was a natural communicator,brilliant writer as well as a tremendous astronomer.
Carl Sagan, both in DVD or in book, had the ability to mix history and science through different locations in the world. He had the ability to capture the brilliant beauty that surrounds us. This series could definately be the best general science series ever broadcast on TV.An if the episodes seem a bit took long, well there is always scene selection !
Review ID: 10000000002580430
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The Cosmos is all that every was or ever will be.
) 2 of 2 people found this review helpful.
Great series. Some of the old graphics have been updated with newer graphics. Only small complaint is that the box that houses the DVD's should have been made out of thicker cardboard. If you aren't careful, it will easily tear. The insert that houses all the actual DVD's is fine though.
This DVD set is deserving of a little better manufacturing, but the content is excellent.
This DVD set is deserving of a little better manufacturing, but the content is excellent.
Review ID: 10000000007985602
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A series that can literally engineer dreams
) 2 of 2 people found this review helpful.
I was always fascinated by the documentaries created by public television after my experience with Cosmos, Carl Sagans gift to humanity. Beautifully weaving human knowledge into a 13 part series. He covers the entire landscape of understanding in some way; History, Biology, Genetics, Neuroscience, Physics, Chemistry, Astronomy, Religion and the relationships of all these with human politics throughout history and across cultures. It is quite a goal to hit and it is done masterfully.
Who are, of where we come and toward where we can continue. The presented Cosmic calendar, from the beginning of the formation of the earth with the Big-Bang, until the last seconds in that we are formed the human and their nature.
Old but not outdated. If you are open minded enough to look at the bigger picture of the world, this will be among the best things you will ever watch. This man was truly gifted at communicating science. I think Carl Sagan proves how far can you go with your thought steady and slow
Highiest possible recommendation.
John (Malta)
Who are, of where we come and toward where we can continue. The presented Cosmic calendar, from the beginning of the formation of the earth with the Big-Bang, until the last seconds in that we are formed the human and their nature.
Old but not outdated. If you are open minded enough to look at the bigger picture of the world, this will be among the best things you will ever watch. This man was truly gifted at communicating science. I think Carl Sagan proves how far can you go with your thought steady and slow
Highiest possible recommendation.
John (Malta)
Review ID: 10000000006948628
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Sagan, the father
) 2 of 3 people found this review helpful.
I've always loved Sagan for his childlike joy of science. He demonstrates that there is no conflict between disciplined thought and study, and the joy and fun that is best associated with it. As I learn from him, I get more than the science, I get something warmer and fleshy, an emotional connection, something like love.
I've read many of his books, but Cosmos is to my knowledge the most easily absorbed and entertaining of his work. Learning at its deepest is not a purely intellectual process, but a very emotional one as well, even spiritual, setting the knowledge deeply and permanently into our minds. Sagan has therefore not only taught me science, but changes my awareness, struck me with awe.
Who needs God when we have nature as this wonderful man unveils it.
I've read many of his books, but Cosmos is to my knowledge the most easily absorbed and entertaining of his work. Learning at its deepest is not a purely intellectual process, but a very emotional one as well, even spiritual, setting the knowledge deeply and permanently into our minds. Sagan has therefore not only taught me science, but changes my awareness, struck me with awe.
Who needs God when we have nature as this wonderful man unveils it.
Review ID: 10000000003964554
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Cosmos - The Complete Collection (2002, DVD)2 of 2 people found this review helpful.
First of all I bought this collection for my wifes birthday. She loves it, I find Carl's delievery dry and slow. It is very informative stuff, they have added "10 year later" bits to some of the segments. I'm enjoying the education I'm getting and would recommend it to anyone who wants to know more about man's place in the universe and our connection to the universe.
Review ID: 10000000003946782
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Awesome: The BEST, Everything about the Cosmos is there
) 2 of 2 people found this review helpful.
This was an awesome DVD set. A must for everyone. Carl Sagan's series is one of the most fansatic things I've every watched...
Review ID: 10000000001377595
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This is wonderful and worth every penny and minute.Review created: 10/24/08
by:
1 of 2 people found this review helpful.
Brings back lot os memories of crowding around the PBS original with my grandmother. Sagan is always wonderful. This is a classic we never tire of seeing.
Review ID: 10000000009144645
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CosmosReview created: 02/10/08
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1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
A pioneer presentation in the study of the universe. Sagen was well ahead of his time. Viewing this series is time well spent.
Review ID: 10000000005581837
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Cosmos- The Complete Collection1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
I have always been interested in outer space. This series is great, wonderfully narrated with outstanding visuals.
Review ID: 10000000002711800
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Cosmos1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
I wish Carl Sagan had made more episodes of "Cosmos" as they are so informative and interesting, and even fun to watch. Each episode is an hour, and that hour goes by very quickly. I had never caught all the episodes on television, and now am very glad we have all thirteen. Carl Sagan is ageless and my four year old will enjoy watching him when he is old enough. Mr. Sagan even provided ten year updates on almost every episode. If you enjoyed watching "Cosmos" on television years ago, I urge you to buy it for posterity, especially since Mr. Sagan has passed away into his cosmos quite a while back.
Review ID: 10000000002598085
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Cosmos by Carl Sagan1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
I had this 13 hour collection on VHS but considered it too important to entrust to magnetic tape. So, I had to get Cosnos on DVD. You see, this is something I wanted to have for the rest of my life. It is timeless knowledge, science at it's best, eloquently presented by the late, brilliant, Carl Sagan. It's not for everyone but if you have substance between your ear's, the importance of this creation will be obvious to you, too.
Review ID: 10000000002018812
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Fantastic, Fun, and (Gasp!) Educational!Review created: 10/20/09
by:
Carl Sagan was a world renowned astronomer and populariser of science and scepticism. This DVD set is a fantastic introduction to astronomy, physics, and science in general for children and adults alike. Also recommended: The Demon-Haunted World, by Carl Sagan.
Review ID: 10000000013931752
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This is a must-see DVD set!!!!!!!!!!!!!Review created: 09/09/09
by:
If you haven't read the book, at least get the DVD set. Carl Sagan is one of the best story tellers, and when it's about your place in the universe, you'll see things in a different way.
Review ID: 10000000013456423
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everyone should have one copy of COSMOS it's amazing!!!i love this documentary
it's simple to watch and easy to learn
Carl Sagan it's a lovely guy full of passion on what he did!
i extremely recommend for the all world!.
it's simple to watch and easy to learn
Carl Sagan it's a lovely guy full of passion on what he did!
i extremely recommend for the all world!.
Review ID: 10000000012919429
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A must have in any DVD collectionReview created: 05/14/09
by:
This is a must have. It has an eerie way of making your feel so small. From billions of years until today. Sagan creates a simplified way of communicating such complicated happenings and findings.
GET IT!
GET IT!
Review ID: 10000000012036912
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GreatReview created: 03/09/09
by:
0 of 1 people found this review helpful.
Great doing business with you. The product came in excellent new condition and was very quick in arriving.
Review ID: 10000000011054180
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Good ProductReview created: 01/02/09
by:
shorner2006 ( 8 )
0 of 3 people found this review helpful.
Product came as ordered.Product came as ordered.Product came as ordered.Product came as ordered.Product came as ordered.Product came as ordered.Product came as ordered.Product came as ordered.Product came as ordered.Product came as ordered.Product came as ordered.Product came as ordered.Product came as ordered.Product came as ordered.Product came as ordered.Product came as ordered.
Review ID: 10000000009987890
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dvd box set0 of 1 people found this review helpful.
thanks. my husband will be happy for christmas. and thanks for understand on the misshap. but thank you once again for everything.
Review ID: 10000000009550981
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Cosmos DVDReview created: 11/14/08
by:
0 of 1 people found this review helpful.
Always good to see Carl Sagen.........................
Review ID: 10000000009401968
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Carl Sagon DVD CosmosReview created: 10/04/08
by:
florida1485 ( 1 )
0 of 1 people found this review helpful.
I remembered watching Cosmos on PBS when it was originally broadcasted. When I saw it was available I immediately purchased it. It was an excellent purchase and will be viewed by many generations to come.
Review ID: 10000000008906366
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WonderfulReview created: 07/11/08
by:
broderskapet9 ( 4 )
Remarkable product, great shipping and packaging, great price. Highly recommended seller. 'Cosmos' is Carl Sagan's beautiful gift to the world of laymen science, both restlessly captivating in it's imflamatory imagination and fuel for the curious mind. A perfect end-of-day retreat that highlights the marvels of our universe, our kind, our history and our future; most importantly how lucky we are to be here.
A++++++ ("billions and billions")
A++++++ ("billions and billions")
Review ID: 10000000007946713
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ExcellentVery insightful and informative. Recommend this documentary series to anyone who has asked - Who we are, where have we been and where is all this going.
Review ID: 10000000007860875
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