A Thesis submitted to the faculty of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in partial
fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in the Department of History.
A New Voice for Science: Science Service under Edwin E. Slosson, 1921-29. (Under the direction of MICHAEL R. McVAUGH )
This study examines the first decade of Science Service, an institution for the popularization of science in Washington, D.C., during the tenure of Edwin E. Slosson as director, from 1921 to 1929. The founding of Science Service is traced to the influence of World War I in awakening scientists to the advantages of popularization in soliciting funds and engaging public support for science. The history of the Service is then narrated from its early struggles to its subsequent successes, and the popular scientific writings of Edwin Slosson are examined with reference to the two postwar concerns of the scientists. The conclusion is reached that Science Service was a new voice for science in that it pioneered new standards in science journalism and helped awaken the public and the press to the importance of science in the modern world.