Slate Launches “The Big Questions,” a Special Series Addressing the Future of Science, Intended to Improve Science Literacy in America

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In an effort to improve science literacy in America, Slate has launched a special, six-month interactive series, exclusively sponsored by Statoil, that will delve deep into the most pressing questions facing scientists today. As part of “The Big Questions” series, Slate‘s stable of writers, editors and expert contributors will be examining what they’ve deemed the most critical questions in science today. One specific question will be addressed each month, and readers can expect to see numerous pieces of varying formats published on each subject. “The Big Questions” will present in-depth reporting on what top scientists are currently working on, how various arguments are shaping their discoveries, and the implications of the work. The series kicked off with the query, “What Makes Human Human?” which will be dissected during the month of October. Five central questions in science will follow, one each month through March.

“At Slate, we are thrilled to be in a position to offer such a robust and important new series in the science genre, thanks to Statoil”

“At Slate, we are thrilled to be in a position to offer such a robust and important new series in the science genre, thanks to Statoil,” said Matt Turck, Publisher of Slate. “Given our smart and savvy regular readership numbering over eight million, our hope is that this project will help to bridge the gap between the research world and engaged citizens and business leaders, sparking a revived interest in the sciences.”

The exclusive sponsor of Slate’s “The Big Questions” is Statoil, who has also entered into a partnership with Slate, The Economist Group, New Scientist, and National Geographic to launch the joint website, Energy Realities (www.energyrealities.org): a visual guide showing how technology and intelligence are ensuring progress and increasing understanding and dialogue global energy needs.

For more information about “The Big Questions,” please visit www.slate.com

About Slate

Slate is a daily magazine on the Web that offers analysis and commentary about news, politics, culture, business, law, and technology. Slate's strong editorial voice and witty take on current events have been recognized with numerous awards, including the National Magazine Award for General Excellence Online and the Missouri Honor Medal for Distinguished Service in Journalism. Reaching eight million unique visitors per month, Slate is the centerpiece of the Slate Group, an online publishing subsidiary of the Washington Post Co. (NYSE:WPO)