Open Letter to Popular Science

December 13, 2004

Mark Jannot, Editor
Popular Science

Dear Mr. Jannot:

I was a reader of Popular Science in my twenties. I recently re-subscribed on a whim, when some local school kids on a magazine drive rang my doorbell. My first issue arrived today (January 2005), and the first thing I read was your editorial, “Political Science.” I was pleased, and a little surprised, frankly, to see the words “political” “science” and “journalistic integrity” in the same piece.

I’m a science fiction writer, and one of the prime requirements of the trade is knowing the difference between science and fiction. I think it’s a distinction that Americans are increasingly unqualified to make, for a variety of reasons, including watered-down science curricula in primary and secondary schools, and a mass media that is increasingly fearful of boring its audience or alienating those whose political and religious beliefs make empiricism a four-letter word.

I applaud your editorial stance, especially since it may cost you readers. I will encourage my friends and acquaintances to subscribe to Popular Science.

Best Wishes,

Bob Howe