The Royal Society is convening to address an unexpected controversy that has arisen. The revered scientific academy, which has been in existence since 1660 and boasts a prestigious history including fellows such as Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Albert Einstein, and Stephen Hawking, is set to hold a meeting to deliberate on the principles concerning the public statements and behaviors of its members. This decision comes in the wake of mounting concerns voiced by thousands of scientists regarding the continued membership of Elon Musk, who was elected as a fellow in 2018 for his groundbreaking advancements in space travel and electric vehicles.
More than 2,000 scientists have signed an open letter penned by structural biologist Stephen Curry expressing dismay over what they perceive as the Royal Society’s “continued silence and apparent inaction” regarding Musk’s fellowship. The signatories of the letter argue that Musk’s conduct, which includes embracing conspiracy theories, is in violation of the Royal Society’s code of conduct. The situation is further exacerbated by Musk’s association with the current U.S. administration under Donald Trump, which has been criticized for its recent attacks on scientific research, as highlighted in the letter.
In response to the escalating situation, The Telegraph newspaper reported that the Royal Society has called for a meeting of its fellows next month to vote on the potential expulsion of Musk. A spokesperson for the Royal Society, when asked about the report, confirmed that a meeting is indeed planned for March 3 to discuss the guidelines regarding the public statements and behaviors of its fellows. The statement emphasized that any matters concerning individual fellows are handled with strict confidentiality, without mentioning Musk specifically.
The unfolding controversy underscores the complex intersection of scientific institutions, public figures, and societal expectations, raising important questions about the ethical responsibilities and conduct of those involved in the scientific community.
