Opening with an in-depth account of the creation of the series within the BBC of the early 1960s, this investigation tackles each decade of the show through a unique political, pop cultural, and historical viewpoint, exploring the links between contemporary Britain and the stories Doctor Who told, as well as how such links kept the show popular. Chapters range from discussions on the cultural and political relevance of monsters like the Daleks (based on lingering wartime fears) and the Cybermen (1960s spare part replacement surgery to themes such as energy and the environment in the 1970s. The book also addresses the late 1980s cancellation of the show and the ways in which a narrowly focused, dedicated fandom contributed to the show's demise—yet was also instrumental in its regeneration for the 21st century under Russell T. Davies. Lastly, this critical history analyzes the new series to reveal what has made it so popular and how it reflects real world issues such as consumerism and dieting.