A N ALY T I CAL

May 1972, Vol. 44, No. 6 EDITORIAL

Editor: HERBERT A. LAITINEN

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Jack of All Trades, Master of One IN AN ERA of increasing specialism, the analytical chemist represents

somewhat of an anomaly in the sense that his effectiveness depends in large measure on his ability to judge the best approach to a problem. As time goes on, the number of possible approaches is continually in- creasing, as is the degree of difficulty of some of the problems to be solved.

The quesl ion may well be asked as to whether it really is possible for a given individual to possess both the breadth to exercise this judgment of options and the depth to make basic research contributions as well. At first glance, it seems inescapable to sacrifice depth if breadth is to be gained. However, if we recognize that the level of knowledge re- quired for competent comparative judgments is considerably lower than that required for basic research Contributions, we see some hope. Furthermore, there seems to be a curvilinear relationship between the fraction of available knowledge gained in a given specialty and the amount of effort necessary to gain it. After all, there is a common foundation to all branches of science in the basic laws of physics and chemistry. It is relatively simple to have an understanding of the un- derlying basic principles, the realm of applicability, and the advantages and disadvantages of each analytical specialty. Thus, a cognizance or competence level can be achieved relatively easily, whereas to approach the research frontier requires substantial study. The important point is to emphasize fundamentals, not trivial details.

However, for a t least one specialty, the research worker in analytical chemistry must be uncomproniisingly a t the frontier, in competition and cooperation with his colleagues in other branches of science. His general acquaintance with a variety of methods will serve him well in pursuing this specialty, and impart to it a special flavor characteristic of the analytical approach.

ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY, VOL. 44, NO. 6, MAY 1972 889