Could Elon Musk lose his fellowship at UK's Royal Society?
What's the story
Elon Musk's fellowship at the UK's Royal Society, one of the world's oldest scientific academies, is under doubt. This follows a recent crisis meeting of 150 members.
The meeting was called to address concerns over Musk's behavior, which many scientists believe endangers science.
The billionaire entrepreneur was awarded fellowship status in 2018 for his immense contributions to scientific fields.
Concerns raised
Musk's controversial actions spark concerns among scientists
In the past few months, many scientists have expressed their concerns over Musk's behavior.
His position in the Donald Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency has seen drastic cuts to US scientific research funding.
He has also been accused of spreading misinformation on X, the social media platform he owns.
Despite the allegations, the Royal Society has declined to comment on Musk's behavior.
Advocacy call
Royal Society emphasizes need for advocacy
After the crisis meeting, the Royal Society released a statement highlighting its members' unanimous agreement on the need for more advocacy in support of science and scientists.
The society usually refrains from political commentary but noted particular concerns expressed by members about their US colleagues possibly losing their jobs amid drastic funding cuts to research.
This follows a statement last week that said science is "under threat" from "ideological agendas" aiming to "suppress research, threaten academic freedom and cut funding."
Discontent expressed
Resignations and open letter highlight discontent
The last time a Royal Society member was expelled was 150 years ago, for theft and fraud. However, Musk's controversial statements could possibly mark a historic turning point for this prestigious institution.
In protest against Musk's actions, two prominent scientists have resigned their fellowships: Dr. Dorothy Bishop from Oxford University and Professor Andrew Millar from the University of Edinburgh.
They both argued Musk's actions were "incompatible" with the society's code of conduct.
Collective concern
Over 3,300 scientists express concern about Musk
More than 3,300 scientists have signed an open letter expressing "deep concern" over Musk's fellowship and the society's "continued silence and apparent inaction" over it.
Professor Stephen Curry of Imperial College London started this letter. While he hasn't explicitly called for Musk's expulsion, he feels an open debate is needed on the matter.
Dr. Bishop also revealed she raised concerns with the Royal Society twice last year but was met with legal consultations each time.
Membership division
Members divided over Musk's membership
While many scientists are worried about Musk's behavior, there are also many academics and Royal Society fellows who don't want to see his membership revoked.
Nobel Prize winner Professor Sir Andre Geim from Manchester University defended Musk saying, "his achievements beat those of any of his critics in the Royal Society."
However, Professor George Efstathiou from Cambridge University disagreed with this view, saying members should respect the truth.
Mission statement
Royal Society's mission and Musk's role
The Royal Society seeks to promote the use of science "for the benefit of humanity and the good of the planet." Its website emphasizes Musk's work in space travel as well as electric vehicles.