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

Nature Trip

New York City has ocean beaches and wildlife areas, including the salt marsh pictured below at the Gerritsen Inlet.