Synopsis
Michael Mosley traces the sinister ways science has been used to try to control our minds, finding that its pursuit has led to some truly horrific experiments.
- Programme: The Brain: A Secret History
- Episode: 01: Mind Control
- Channel: BBC Four
- Broadcast year: 2011
Licence: ERA Licence required
Free to watch for UK schools, colleges and universities with an ERA Licence
UK only
Staff and students of licensed education establishments only
Cannot be adapted
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