ReGenesis (Syndicated)

On paper, REGENESIS sounds much like other medical/investigation procedurals -- a bit like ER without the frantic emergencies or CSI with less crime and more investigation. Plenty of scenes feature researchers at work in the lab, discussing big, complicated theories and abstract concepts ... and then conveniently solving a major scientific problem in less than 55 minutes.

What makes this series different -- and in some ways more interesting -- is its focus on the big picture. When the NORBAC tackles something, they aren't just solving a single problem -- they're using the opportunity to ask intriguing and important ethical questions. Solving a pollution crisis, for example, is an opportunity to discuss the ways that mankind is damaging Earth; identifying a gene that triggers homosexuality leads to questions about eugenics and social control; and investigating an epidemic opens the door to examining bioterrorism. While other shows follow the progress of individual patients or try to solve specific crimes, ReGenesis wants to save the world.