Professor, a lot of it depends on what you are going to be watching most. I think the technologies are so advanced for both now that there's not much of a difference. I have a plasma and love it. I really only watch movies and sports on that tv though. I still watch my older 32" regular tv with the digital cable box most of the time because it's closer to the kitchen and has a great picture. Check out the website below and most importantly, go to some stores and check them out in person. Make sure you look at them from the distance you'll be watching from at home and check out the picture from all different angles.
http://www.lcdtvbuyingguide.com/lcdtv-plasmavslcd.shtml