A past Snapshot showed that more than 80% of scientists regularly watch television. We surveyed 317 readers to find out what they turned on. Not surprisingly in these difficult times, more than 80% frequently watch news and news programs. A solid 68% click on science documentaries, followed by more escapist fare--movies and comedy programs.
Our readers' favorite regularly watched program, and most preferred all-time show, is CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. However, we aren't sure if this counts as drama or science fiction. Perhaps our readers wish that their laboratories were so clean and their results so clear-cut as those on CSI. Following in popularity, in tune with those viewed by the general public, are Friends, The Simpsons, ER, and Law and Order. A least-loved TV genre: reality shows. (Truth be told, we were worried for a moment or two...)