To encourage frank and open exchange, all workshops will be off the record and plenary proceedings will be conducted under the Chatham House Rules which require that no one may be quoted or referred to by name without their express permission.

We are offering a smorgasbord of options: Breakfasts and Lunch Buffets with the time to meet and mingle; Lunches and Dinners with distinguished and interesting Speakers; 4 Plenary Interactive Panel Sessions; 16 Interactive Panel Discussion Workshops; a trip to CERN, the European Laboratory for Particle Physics, arranged by Participant Chris Quigg; a too short Symphony Concert plus the amenities of The Grand Hôtel-golf, tennis, spa, casino and we are 15 minutes from Geneva-a beautiful multicultural city, the home of the International Red Cross and former home of the League of Nations.

Consider the weekend one long terrific dinner party. All of you have gathered here as "just people"-accomplished, interesting and curious people to be sure, which is why you were invited-but the intent of the weekend is to meet each other and engage in discussions about interesting topics, and, hopefully, to better understand the cultural imprints we all bear.

We represent many different cultures, backgrounds and professions, and I hope that you will make new and lasting relationships and eventually develop ideas that can change you and your lives and possibly the world.