Vernon Ehlers: “I find it strange that today many people regard chemistry as a danger because they worry about things such as…”

“I find it strange that today many people regard chemistry as a danger because they worry about things such as pesticides. In fact, I recall speaking to a person once who said that she really did not dare to eat anything now unless it was natural because of the chemicals. And I said, ``Well, do you like oranges?'' ``Oh, yes, they are wonderful.'' she replied. I said, ``In spite of the fact that they are filled with chemicals, chemicals such as vitamin C?'' And I went on to name other chemical components. Chemicals can be either good or bad. And they are certainly a part of everyday life, but what I appreciate is the many good things that chemistry has brought us. And I also appreciate the American Chemical Society, which has established the National Chemistry Week which we are celebrating here. This year the theme is Earth's Atmosphere and Beyond, in an effort to honor the 100th anniversary of Orville and Wilbur Wright's flight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.”