However, information can be circulated electronically in the internet, which may set us free from a burden of paper handling. The Internet will revolutionize a way of scientific communication which had been oral presentation or publication on journals. It is very important for scientists to exchange information at annual meetings or symposiums of scientific societies. The societies, originated by Plato, have evolved into specialized ones. On the other hand, some have been integrated into interdisciplinary societies.
Scientists can save their precious time and budget if they exchange information electronically.
So, they may expect exchange of scientific information more often on the internet than the conventional meetings. Many scientists have started to use mailing lists. Electronic journals and virtual meetings have been founded recently. Although the internet may revolutionize a style of communication in scientific societies, the revolution will not happen spontaneously without efforts. Someone must develop methodologies about how to use the internet for scientific communication.