Technology Was Around Long Before Computers Were Invented

Over the past few years, I’ve noticed that most people have come to use the word “technology” to denote computer and information technology. So you can understand why I was skeptical when I opened the July 25 Special Millennium Issue devoted to science and technology (“One Big Think Tank”).

But you clearly got it right, from our ancestors’ use of stone implements to today’s sophisticated and varied technologies. Thank you for reemphasizing the fact that technology is a broad term.

Don Maurizio, chair

Department of Technology

Cal State L.A.

*

That was a much needed millennium issue on technological achievements and sunshine science. Dr. Gregory Benford’s article (“In Praise of Our Technopolis”) was not only a welcome break from the usual fare, but it also referred to a scientist as a “she.”

After rereading the statement, “Many a rocket scientist presumably landed here simply because she saw the same bikini-in-January advantages snowbound Cheeseheads notice at sunny Rose Bowl games”), I was reminded of a wonderful statistics professor at Cal State Fullerton, Edward Stearns, who would often jar and/or validate his graduate students by referring to scientists with the female pronoun.

Cristina Chaparro Lutz

Los Angeles

*

The July 25 magazine obviously was well planned and had a lot to offer. Please keep up the good work.

Joyce Glenn

via e-mail

*

The magazine, week after week, couldn’t be more boring if you tried.

Bill Stein

Arroyo Grande