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SCIENCE IN GENERAL EDUCATION* Since the advent of atomic energy in 1945, our citizens have shown an unprecedented awareness of the part science plays in shaping public affairs. Beginning with the publication of the Smyth report, "Atomic Energy for Military Purposes," more and more books about things labelled "science" and persons called "scientists" have found their way onto the best-soller lists. Examine the title s most in demand at your local libraries. You " will probably find among them such works as "Explaining the Atom, "Modern Science and Its Philosophy," and "The Universe and Doctor Einstein." The reading public is curious, inquisitive--eager to learn about this great, but overwhelming force of the mid-twentieth century A closer examination of popular contemporary titles, thowever, reveals a significant phenomenon. Side by side with science books are such works as these: "Peace oi Mind, " "Peace of Soul, " "Guide for Confident Living," "You and Your Fears," and "How to Stop Worrying and Start Living." Our-citizens are disturbed and confused. The complexities of livin in the Atomic Age make for mental insecurity. Today we find ourselves desperately groping for serenity, searching for answers to questions which seem beyond our grasp. Apparently, the citizen is seeking not only to understand the forces which determine events in his world, but also to relieve the Address by Earl James McGrath, U. S. Commissioner of Education, Federal Security Agency, Washington, D. C., before Educational Conference, University of Scranton, Scrunton, Pennsylvania, March 18, 1950