Edwin Emery Slosson

Edwin Emery Slosson (1865-1929)

Edwin Emery Slosson was an American who wore many hats throughout his career: magazine editor, writer, journalist, and chemist. Here's a breakdown of his key achievements:

Science Popularizer:

• Slosson is most recognized for his role in making science accessible and engaging for the public.
• He achieved this through:
  • Writing: His clear and concise writing style made complex scientific concepts understandable to a broad audience.
  • Editing: As the first head of Science Service (now Society for Science & the Public), he oversaw the distribution of science news to newspapers and magazines.
  • Books: He authored books like "Creative Chemistry" which highlighted recent advancements in the field.

Education and Research:

• Slosson initially trained as a chemist, earning a doctorate from the University of Chicago.
• He held positions as:
  • Assistant Professor of Chemistry at the University of Wyoming.
  • State Chemist of Wyoming, where he conducted research on soil composition and petroleum.

Journalism and Writing:

• Beyond science, Slosson had a successful career in journalism. He served as a literary editor and contributor to The Independent magazine.
• He also wrote on diverse topics beyond science, including philosophy and religion (e.g., "Six Major Prophets").

Overall Significance:

• Edwin Emery Slosson played a crucial role in bridging the gap between the scientific community and the general public.
• His clear writing and dedication to science communication helped foster public understanding and appreciation of scientific advancements.