User:DjTaber62/PhilatelyEdits

Philately
Change to starting paragraph to make consistent the optional component of stamp collecting, and the full range of Philatelic pursuits. Since the current version contradicts itself on the topic of stamp collecting.

New Opening Paragraph
Philately is the distinct activity of studying revenue and postage stamps, which may or may not include stamp collecting. Philately's scope include stamp-related items such as postal stationery, along with the study of postal marks and postal history. This includes the design, production and uses of stamps after they are authorized for issue, usually by government officials such as postal authorities. For instance, some philatelists will study extremely rare stamps without expecting to own copies of them, whether because of cost, or because the sole survivors are in museums. Conversely, stamp collecting itself is the acquisition of stamps, at times without regard for origin or usage.

Current Opening Paragraph
Philately is the study and collecting of revenue and postage stamps. This includes the design, production and uses of stamps after they are authorized for issue, usually by government officials such as postal authorities. Philately is the distinct activity of studying stamps, which may or may not include stamp collecting. For instance, some philatelists will study extremely rare stamps without expecting to own copies of them, whether because of cost, or because the sole survivors are in museums. Conversely, stamp collecting itself is the acquisition of stamps, at times without regard for origin or usage.