Dear Readers:

Science21 draws inspiration from many sources. In 1981, Bob Rice and I, with the assistance of Ted Beck and the San Francisco Bay Area Science Fair, Inc., launched a magazine called BASE-A Journal of Science &Technology. In the subsequent decade, BASE gained a reputation as a leading scientific journal publishing the research work of America's and Europe's most creative young scientists. In 1990, in response to increasing evidence that we need to improve public understanding of science, I wrote an editorial proposing that we expand our magazine by including articles promoting scientific literacy. I remarked that since the public-and legislators-are often unable to recognize the flaws in scientific studies, they may approve expensive and unsuccessful policies based on such studies.

In 1991, KateYudin Hutchison, working with the Santa ClaraValley Science & Engineering Fair, Inc. in California, developed a proposal for a science and engineering magazine for California high school students. Based on a survey of high school science educators, she identified the need for a magazine that would "strengthen the communication skills of students who want to pursue careers in science" by publishing student essays, and providing information on internships, scholarships, career choices in science and engineering, and college preparation and selection. When she shared her ideas with the publishers of BASE, she confirmed and clarified our own conclusions about the need to move in a new direction.

This new publication will continue to feature the work of our finest young scientists. New articles explaining the nature and problems of scientific research will help them and their classmates understand the significance of their work in the world of science. They will learn from first-hand reports about exciting scientific careers inside and outside the laboratory. Finally, articles about special programs in science education will bring students and teachers together in a community of learning.

The sum result of these changes will be a more inviting, readable science magazine that can help build a world community whose members are ready for the challenges of the 21st Century: the Century of Science. Welcome to Science21! We hope you enjoy it and write us your comments. This is your magazine and we want to make sure that it fills your needs.

Ken Matsumura, M.D.,
Editor-in-Chief