Bruce A. Martin
P.O.Box 456, Middle Island,
Long Island, NY   11953
(631) 924-8680
bam@hamptons.com

2000 March 18     

Dear Editor:

Although I have published numerous technical documents and scientific papers (as well as a few non-technical essays in local media), this is my first foray into the genre known as "consumer magazines."

Enclosed is a short essay reflecting upon some "facts" that have changed since I learned them in school. The piece makes observations, some whimsical, regarding a sudden shift in scientific orthodoxy that occurred in the late 1950s, some speculation regarding impacts upon the training of researchers, and a fortuitous arithmetic coincidence. I hope you will enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Because the error in question was somewhat obscure at the time, and its traces were covered up rather quickly, I have also enclosed some background material to satisfy Reader's Digest's well-known penchant for research and high standards for accuracy. Please note that the background material is not being submitted for publication at this time. It was extracted from my notes on a longer piece that I am developing on the theme of "scientific conformity."

Please consider "Counting Chromosomes" (but not the background material) for publication in "Reader's Digest." I welcome any comments you may have regarding the submitted item, as well as my planned project. I would especially appreciate any criticism of my ideas and writing -- constructive or not.

Thank you for your kind attention.

Sincerely, Bruce A. Martin