Problems and progress in dielectric research

One of the main objectives of the Conference on Electrical Insulation is to establish an intimate contact and exchange of ideas between the science devoted to fundamental research on dielectrics and the industry concerned with their applications. In the last few years it appeared as if this purpose was not being accomplished. Our program has oscillated between a too scientific approach, frightening the practical engineer, and a too practical approach, alienating the scientists. In addition, we began to load our agenda with so many papers that the chance for unhurried discussion was lost, and the membership brought to the verge of physical exhaustion.