Volume I of this series, Advances in Photochemistry, appeared in 1963. The stated purpose of this series was to explore the frontiers of photochemistry
through the medium of chapters written by pioneers who are experts. Fron-
tiers in photochemistry are at times full of confusion and for this reason they
are fascinating!
In the first six volumes the editors have not acted as censors. We have
followed the principle set forth in the original introduction to this series, that
is, "the authors are free to make any statement they wish which cannot be
proven wrong." We have solicited articles from experts who have strong
personal points of view concerning fundamental aspects of photochemistry
and spectroscopy. We have asked these authors to present their points of
view through critical discussion and evaluation of existing data. In no sense
have the articles been simply literature surveys although in some cases they
have fulfilled both purposes.