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American Association For The Advancement Of Science

International nonprofit organization

Not to be confused with the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, which, despite its similar venerability, maintains a distinct focus and organizational structure. It seems humanity has a penchant for naming things with bewildering similarity.

Abbreviation AAAS Pronunciation • Triple-A S Founded September 20, 1848 (177 years ago) (1848-09-20) Focus Science education and outreach, among other grand aspirations. Location • William T. Golden Center for Science and Engineering Washington, D.C., U.S. Members 120,000+ Website www .aaas .org Formerly called Association of American Geologists and Naturalists Washington, D.C., office of the AAAS

The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) stands as a formidable, United States–based international nonprofit organization, ostensibly driven by the mission of fostering collaboration among the world's scientists. Beyond mere cooperation, its stated objectives extend to the crucial defense of scientific freedom, the cultivation of profound scientific responsibility, and the unwavering support for both scientific education and broader science outreach—all, presumably, for the betterment of all humanity. One can almost hear the triumphant fanfare, though the "betterment" part often feels like a work in progress, doesn't it?

Historically, the AAAS holds the distinction of being the first permanent organization established within the United States dedicated to the nationwide promotion of science and engineering. This pioneering role also saw it assume the responsibility of representing the diverse interests of American researchers spanning every conceivable scientific field. It has since grown to become the world's largest general scientific society, boasting a membership exceeding 120,000 individuals, a testament to its enduring influence and the sheer volume of people compelled to join such an endeavor. Furthermore, the AAAS is widely recognized as the esteemed publisher of the globally renowned scientific journal, Science, a publication that frequently shapes the very discourse of scientific discovery.

History

Creation

The genesis of the American Association for the Advancement of Science occurred on September 20, 1848, within the hallowed halls of the Academy of Natural Sciences in the historic city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This wasn't a wholly new creation but rather a significant reformation and expansion of an existing, more specialized body: the Association of American Geologists and Naturalists. The transformation marked a deliberate broadening of its mission, evolving from a focused group into the nation's inaugural permanent organization dedicated to the comprehensive promotion of science and engineering across the country. It was designed to serve as a unified voice for the myriad interests of American researchers, transcending the boundaries of individual scientific disciplines.

For its first president, the society judiciously selected William Charles Redfield. His appointment was a pragmatic choice, largely due to his presentation of the most comprehensive and well-articulated plans for the nascent organization's structure and future direction. According to the foundational constitution, which was formally agreed upon at that pivotal September 20 meeting, the society's primary ambition was to cultivate and encourage robust scientific dialogue. This was not merely for polite conversation, but a strategic move intended to foster greater scientific collaboration, thereby enabling the more efficient allocation of resources and, crucially, accelerating the pace of scientific progress. The association also recognized the necessity of actively advocating for scientific endeavors, seeking to increase the overall resources available to the burgeoning scientific community. At its inception, the AAAS was a modest affair, comprising only 78 founding members. Among these early intellectual pioneers was Matthew Fontaine Maury, a distinguished officer of the USN, whose contributions would soon underscore the association's commitment to practical scientific application.

Just two days later, on Friday afternoon, September 22, 1848, President Redfield presided over a meeting where Matthew Fontaine Maury delivered a comprehensive scientific report on his groundbreaking "Wind and Current Charts." Maury's presentation highlighted an already impressive network, noting that hundreds of ship navigators were regularly submitting abstract logs of their voyages to the United States Naval Observatory. He declared, with a hint of pride, that "Never before was such a corps of observers known." Yet, ever the pragmatist, Maury articulated a critical need to his fellow scientists: the urgent requirement for more "simultaneous observations." He emphasized the universal scope of his work, stating unequivocally that "The work is not exclusively for the benefit of any nation or age." This sentiment sparked a discussion, recorded in the minutes of the AAAS meeting, regarding the possibility of broader international cooperation. It was suggested "whether the states of Christendom might not be induced to cooperate with their Navies in the undertaking; at least so far as to cause abstracts of their log-books and sea journals to be furnished to Matthew F. Maury, USN, at the Naval Observatory at Washington." The ambition, even then, was global, a somewhat quaint notion given the prevailing political landscapes.

Inspired by Maury's vision, William Barton Rogers, a distinguished professor at the University of Virginia and later the visionary founder of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, proposed a resolution. It read: "Resolved that a Committee of five be appointed to address a memorial to the Secretary of the Navy, requesting his further aid in procuring for Matthew Maury the use of the observations of European and other foreign navigators, for the extension and perfecting of his charts of winds and currents." The resolution was swiftly adopted, and the appointed committee comprised, in addition to Rogers himself, other prominent members of the association: Professor Joseph Henry of Washington, Professor Benjamin Peirce of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Professor James H. Coffin of Easton, Pennsylvania, and Professor Stephen Alexander of Princeton, New Jersey. This early act of collaborative advocacy, bridging scientific pursuit with governmental and international diplomacy, filled Maury with considerable optimism for future endeavors.

In a remarkably progressive move for the era, 1850 saw the formal acceptance of the first female members into the AAAS. These pioneering women included the renowned astronomer Maria Mitchell, celebrated for her discovery of a comet, and the accomplished entomologist Margaretta Morris, who made significant contributions to the understanding of insect life cycles. The association continued this inclusive trajectory with the election of science educator Almira Hart Lincoln Phelps in 1859, further cementing its early commitment to diversifying its ranks.

Early growth and post-Civil War dormancy

The initial decades saw a robust expansion of the AAAS's influence and membership. By 1860, the association's ranks had swelled to over 2,000 individuals, reflecting a growing enthusiasm for organized scientific inquiry in the young nation. However, this period of burgeoning growth was abruptly interrupted by the cataclysmic outbreak of the American Civil War. The profound national conflict forced the AAAS into a period of dormancy, with its scheduled August 1861 meeting in Nashville, Tennessee, being indefinitely postponed following the initial major engagement of the war at Bull Run. The very fabric of society, including its scientific endeavors, was fractured by the conflict. Yet, with characteristic resilience, the association managed to recover and re-establish its activities once the hostilities ceased.

In 1866, marking the formal revival of the organization, Frederick Barnard presided over the first meeting of the resurrected AAAS, held in New York City. Following this pivotal gathering, the group experienced another period of considerable growth, likely fueled by a renewed national focus on reconstruction and progress. A key aspect of the AAAS's strategy for expansion was its remarkably open membership policy: it permitted all individuals, irrespective of their formal scientific credentials, to join its ranks. This broad appeal fostered a diverse community, though the association did, however, introduce a system to recognize scientific merit by instituting a policy of granting the distinguished title of "Fellow of the AAAS" exclusively to well-respected and accomplished scientists within the organization.

Despite this resurgence, the recovered AAAS soon found itself confronting significant competition. The post-Civil War era witnessed a proliferation of newly established learned societies, each catering to increasingly specialized scientific disciplines. These included the prestigious National Academy of Sciences, founded in 1863; the American Chemical Society in 1876; the Archaeological Institute of America in 1879; and even humanities-focused groups like the Modern Language Association (1883) and the American Historical Association (1884). Further specialization arrived with the Geological Society of America (1888), the National Geographic Society (1888), and the American Physical Society (1899). This fragmentation inevitably drew away some of the AAAS's members, who sought more focused intellectual homes. Compounding these challenges, the reputation of the AAAS suffered a degree of tarnishing due to the actions of its 3rd president, Alexander Dallas Bache. Bache controversially utilized the Society as a lobbying tool to advance the interests of his own agency, the US Coast Survey. This perceived misuse of the association's platform caused several prominent scientists to lose interest in the AAAS, leading to a noticeable decline in the society's overall influence and standing within the scientific community. It seems even in the realm of pure inquiry, politics finds a way to muddy the waters.

Twentieth century

A pivotal turning point in the history of the AAAS arrived at the dawn of the 20th century with its partnership with the journal Science. In 1900, Science became the society's official publication, a strategic alliance that provided the AAAS with not only a powerful voice for disseminating scientific research but also a vital stream of revenue through subscriptions and advertising. This relationship deepened significantly when the AAAS assumed sole ownership of Science in 1946, transforming the journal into its undisputed flagship publication.

The post-World War II era ushered in the age of "big science," characterized by large-scale, government-funded research initiatives and profound scientific and technical breakthroughs. Monumental achievements such as the launch of Sputnik 1 and the dawn of space flight, the harnessing of nuclear power, and the monumental discovery of the structure of DNA captivated public imagination and ignited an unprecedented surge of public interest in science across the USA. This heightened public engagement directly translated into growing sales for the Science journal, a trend further amplified by the shrewd business acumen and editorial leadership of figures like Dael Wolfle (who served from 1954 to 1970) and William D. Carey (from 1974 to 1985). Their guidance ensured the journal remained both scientifically rigorous and financially robust.

Another significant development for the society was the establishment of its highly impactful Congressional Fellowship program in 1973. This initiative, kick-started by a generous US$10,000 donation from the philanthropist William T. Golden, was designed to bridge the gap between scientific expertise and public policy, allowing scientists to gain firsthand experience in the legislative process. It was a recognition that scientific progress, however brilliant, often requires a guiding hand in the corridors of power.

Advocacy

The AAAS has long understood that its role extends beyond merely publishing research; it must actively champion the scientific enterprise and its principles. Alan I. Leshner, who served as AAAS CEO from 2001 until 2015, became a prominent voice in this advocacy. He frequently published op-ed articles that thoughtfully explored the complex ways many individuals integrate both science and religion into their lives, seeking common ground rather than fostering conflict. Crucially, Leshner was a vocal opponent of the insertion of non-scientific content, such as creationism or intelligent design, into the scientific curriculum of schools. His stance underscored the AAAS's commitment to protecting the integrity of science education from ideologically driven incursions.

In a landmark move in December 2006, the AAAS adopted a unequivocal official statement on climate change. The statement declared, with no room for ambiguity, that "The scientific evidence is clear: global climate change caused by human activities is occurring now, and it is a growing threat to society....The pace of change and the evidence of harm have increased markedly over the last five years. The time to control greenhouse gas emissions is now." This was not just a scientific observation, but a call to urgent action, reflecting the scientific consensus and the gravity of the crisis.

Demonstrating its commitment to applying scientific methods to address global challenges, in February 2007, the AAAS made innovative use of satellite images to meticulously document compelling evidence of human rights abuses in Burma. This marked a significant step in utilizing scientific tools for humanitarian advocacy, providing objective data where traditional reporting might be suppressed. The following year, in 2008, the AAAS further expanded its global engagement by launching the Center for Science Diplomacy. This initiative was designed to advance both scientific progress and the broader relationships among partner countries by actively promoting science diplomacy and fostering international scientific cooperation. It was a recognition that shared scientific goals could transcend political divides, offering a unique pathway for global understanding.

The AAAS has also been a vigilant guardian of scientific funding. In 2012, it launched a concerted campaign, publishing numerous op-eds, organizing impactful events on Capitol Hill, and releasing detailed analyses of the U.S. federal research-and-development budget. The purpose of these efforts was to issue a stark warning: that an impending budget sequestration would inflict severe and potentially irreversible consequences on the trajectory of scientific progress in the United States. It seems even the most brilliant minds occasionally need to remind their political counterparts of the obvious.

Sciences

The AAAS, true to its designation as a general scientific society, meticulously covers an extraordinarily diverse array of scientific and engineering disciplines. Its expansive scope is structurally organized into 24 distinct sections, each operating with its own dedicated committee and an appointed chair. These committees are not merely administrative bodies; they are also entrusted with the crucial annual responsibility of evaluating and selecting individuals for the esteemed designation of Fellows, recognizing those who have made significant contributions to their fields. This comprehensive sectional structure ensures that the AAAS remains relevant and engaged across the vast landscape of human inquiry.

The 24 sections include, but are not limited to, the following critical domains:

Governance

The intricate machinery of the AAAS's governance, as established by its most recent Constitution enacted on January 1, 1973, is meticulously structured through four principal entities. These include a President, a cadre of administrative officers responsible for the day-to-day operations, a deliberative Council, and a strategic board of directors. A well-oiled machine, or at least, one that attempts to be.

Presidents

Individuals who are honored with election to the presidency of the AAAS undertake a unique and structured three-year term of service. This tenure is carefully phased: the first year is dedicated to serving as the president-elect, a period of preparation and transition. The second year sees them assume the full responsibilities of the president, leading the organization. Finally, in their third year, they transition to the influential role of chairperson of the board of directors, providing continuity and strategic oversight. In accordance with the long-standing convention observed by the AAAS, presidents are officially referenced by the year in which their full presidential term concludes, signifying their complete contribution.

For the 2015–16 term, Geraldine Richmond held the esteemed position of president of AAAS. Concurrently, Phillip Sharp served as the board chair, and Barbara A. Schaal was the president-elect, poised to assume leadership. Each of these distinguished individuals formally took office on the concluding day of the 2015 AAAS Annual Meeting, held in February 2015. The rotational leadership structure ensures a smooth transition of power and institutional knowledge. On the last day of the subsequent 2016 AAAS Annual Meeting, specifically February 15, 2016, a ceremonial shift occurred: Richmond transitioned to become the chair, Schaal ascended to the presidency, and a new president-elect was welcomed into office, continuing the established cycle of leadership.

The annals of past AAAS presidents are populated by some of the most influential and important scientific figures of their respective eras. This illustrious roster includes the intrepid explorer and geologist John Wesley Powell (who concluded his term in 1888), the brilliant astronomer and physicist Edward Charles Pickering (1912), the pioneering anthropologist Margaret Mead (1975), and the celebrated evolutionary biologist and author Stephen Jay Gould (2000). Their diverse backgrounds underscore the AAAS's commitment to a broad spectrum of scientific disciplines.

Notable presidents of the AAAS, 1848–2005 The following list provides a glimpse into the distinguished individuals who have steered the AAAS through significant periods of scientific advancement and societal change, leaving their indelible mark on the organization and the broader scientific community:

Administrative officers

Beyond the rotating leadership of the presidency, three classifications of high-level administrative officials are instrumental in executing the fundamental, daily functions that keep the AAAS operational. These critical roles include the executive officer, who oversees the overarching administration; the treasurer, responsible for the meticulous management of the association's finances; and, finally, each of the AAAS's individual section secretaries, who manage the specific administrative needs of their respective scientific domains. As of recent appointments, Sudip Parikh serves as the current CEO of AAAS and the executive publisher of Science magazine, a dual role of considerable influence. Complementing this leadership, Holden Thorp holds the prestigious position of the current Editor in Chief of Science magazine, guiding its editorial direction and upholding its rigorous scientific standards.

Sections of the AAAS

As previously noted, the AAAS is structurally subdivided into 24 distinct "sections," each meticulously designed to address a particular area of scientific inquiry or concern pertinent to the association's broad mission. This comprehensive organizational scheme ensures that the vast and ever-expanding landscape of human knowledge is adequately represented within the AAAS. The sections span an impressive range, from the practical applications of agriculture to the theoretical depths of astronomy, the complexities of biological science, and the human-centered studies of psychology and social science. This diverse structure is intended to foster interdisciplinary connections and ensure that specialized fields can still contribute to a broader scientific dialogue, preventing the silos of knowledge that can sometimes impede progress.

The full list of these specialized divisions includes: agriculture, anthropology, astronomy, atmospheric science, biological science, chemistry, dentistry, education, engineering, general interest in science and engineering, geology and geography, the history and philosophy of science, technology, computer science, linguistics, mathematics, medical science, neuroscience, pharmaceutical science, physics, psychology, science and human rights, social and political science, the social impact of science and engineering, and statistics.

Affiliates

The reach of the AAAS extends far beyond its direct membership through a vast network of affiliate organizations. This impressive collective includes 262 distinct societies and academies of science, representing a staggering combined membership of over 10 million individuals. This broad affiliation demonstrates the AAAS's central role as a unifying body within the scientific ecosystem. The range of these affiliates is remarkably diverse, spanning from highly specialized and rigorously empirical groups such as the Acoustical Society of America and the Wildlife Society, to more... unconventional non-mainstream groups like the Parapsychological Association. One might infer from this breadth that the AAAS is either incredibly inclusive or simply hasn't quite figured out where to draw the line on what constitutes "science."

The Council

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The AAAS Council serves as a critical deliberative body, embodying the collective wisdom and diverse perspectives of the association. Its composition is intentionally broad, drawing members from various facets of the AAAS leadership and wider scientific community. Specifically, the council is comprised of all members of the Board of Directors, the retiring section chairmen (ensuring continuity of experience), a contingent of elected delegates, and a select group of affiliated foreign council members, underscoring the organization's international scope. Among the elected delegates, there is a mandate to always include at least two members hailing from the prestigious National Academy of Sciences, alongside at least one representative from each geographical region of the country, ensuring regional voices are heard. The President of the AAAS assumes the additional crucial role of Chairperson of the council, presiding over its meetings and guiding its agenda. Individual members typically serve the council for a term of three years, contributing to its ongoing dialogue and decision-making processes.

The council convenes annually to engage in robust discussions concerning matters of paramount importance to the AAAS. Its powers are extensive and foundational to the association's operation. These include the authority to meticulously review all activities undertaken by the Association, to elect new distinguished fellows into its ranks, to adopt significant resolutions that guide the organization's stance, and to propose amendments to both the Association's constitution and its bylaws, thereby shaping its foundational principles. Furthermore, the council possesses the power to create new scientific sections as knowledge evolves and new fields emerge, and to actively organize and support local chapters of the AAAS, extending its influence to grassroots scientific communities. In a recent development, aimed at fostering generational diversity and fresh perspectives, the Council has seen new additions from different sections, notably including several youngsters. Among these, John Kerry of Chicago holds the distinction of being the youngest American member in the council, while Akhil Ennamsetty of India is recognized as the youngest foreign council member. A bold move, perhaps, to inject new blood into an ancient system.

Board of directors

The AAAS board of directors functions as the primary executive and administrative authority, overseeing the strategic direction and operational integrity of the association. Its composition is carefully structured to ensure a blend of leadership, expertise, and continuity. The board includes a chairperson, who provides overarching guidance; the current president and president-elect, ensuring a seamless transition of leadership; alongside eight elected directors, who bring diverse perspectives from the scientific community. Furthermore, the executive officer of the association holds a permanent seat, providing essential institutional knowledge, and up to two additional directors may be appointed by the elected officers, offering flexibility in specialized expertise. While most members serve a four-year term, directors appointed by elected officers typically serve for three years, aligning with the presidential cycle.

The immediate past-president of the AAAS traditionally assumes the role of chairperson for the board of directors. As such, Gerald Fink, the distinguished Margaret and Herman Sokol Professor at Whitehead Institute, MIT, served as the chairman until the conclusion of the 2016 AAAS Annual Meeting on February 15, 2016. The board of directors is vested with a wide array of significant powers and responsibilities crucial to the functioning of the AAAS. These include the meticulous administration of all association funds, the critical task of publishing an annual budget, the strategic appointment of key administrators, the proposition of amendments to the association's governing documents, and the fundamental duty of determining the time and place for national association meetings. Beyond internal governance, the board also possesses the authority to speak publicly on behalf of the association, articulating its positions on scientific and societal issues. To ensure accountability and transparency, the board is mandated to regularly correspond with the council, discussing its actions and ensuring alignment with the broader objectives of the AAAS.

AAAS Fellows

The designation of Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (FAAAS) represents one of the highest honors bestowed upon members by their peers within the scientific community. Each year, the AAAS council meticulously elects individuals who have demonstrated exceptional scientific distinction and made meritorious efforts to advance science or its applications. Election to AAAS is not merely a title; it is a profound recognition of significant achievement, a testament to one's contributions to the advancement of knowledge. Elected fellows are formally presented with a certificate commemorating their achievement and a distinctive rosette pin, symbolizing their esteemed status.

In a significant move reflecting evolving standards of professional conduct in the sciences, starting October 15, 2018, the AAAS implemented a robust policy for the potential revocation of a Fellow's status. This measure underscores the association's commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards within the scientific community. A Fellow's status can now be revoked in cases of "proven scientific misconduct, serious breaches of professional ethics, or when the Fellow in the view of the AAAS otherwise no longer merits the status of Fellow." This explicit policy serves as a powerful deterrent against professional malfeasance, ensuring that the honor of being a Fellow remains tied to continued integrity and ethical conduct, a necessary measure in an imperfect world.

Meetings

The formal gatherings of the AAAS, central to its mission of fostering scientific dialogue and collaboration, are numbered consecutively, commencing with the very first meeting held in 1848. These annual convergences of scientific minds, however, have not been entirely uninterrupted. The association's meetings were notably suspended for a period between 1861 and 1865, a direct consequence of the profound upheaval and national division wrought by the American Civil War. Similarly, the global conflicts of the 20th century also impacted its operations, leading to the cancellation of meetings in 1942 and 1943 during World War II. These interruptions serve as stark reminders that even the pursuit of knowledge is not immune to the larger forces of human history.

Since the cessation of World War II, a consistent schedule has been maintained, with one meeting occurring annually since 1946. These pivotal events are now customarily held in February, bringing together thousands of scientists, policymakers, educators, and journalists to discuss cutting-edge research, address pressing societal challenges, and shape the future direction of scientific inquiry.

Awards and Policy Fellowships

Each year, the AAAS proudly confers a number of honorary awards, meticulously designed to recognize and celebrate outstanding contributions across various facets of the scientific enterprise. The majority of these accolades are keenly focused on promoting excellence in science communication, journalism, and broader public outreach, often in collaborative partnerships with other esteemed organizations. These awards are specifically crafted to recognize "scientists, journalists, and public servants for significant contributions to science and to the public's understanding of science," acknowledging that the dissemination of knowledge is as crucial as its discovery. The presentation of these prestigious awards is a highlight of the association's annual meeting, drawing attention to exemplary work.

Distinct from the aforementioned and highly prestigious Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science program, the AAAS also offers the similarly-sounding, yet completely unrelated, AAAS Policy Fellowship Programs. These programs are designed to provide highly qualified Ph.D. scientists and M.S. engineers with invaluable opportunities to serve within the U.S. federal government. These policy fellows typically dedicate one or two years to working directly within various branches of government, bridging the gap between scientific expertise and public policy. The program places approximately 130 fellows within the executive branch, 5 within the legislative branch (on Capitol Hill), and a singular position within the judicial branch, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to integrating scientific insight into governance. It's a pragmatic recognition that knowledge, however profound, needs a conduit to power.

Currently active awards, reflecting the diverse priorities of the AAAS, include:

  • Award for Science and Diplomacy
  • Early Career Award for Public Engagement with Science
  • The Eppendorf & Science Prize for Neurobiology
  • Kavli Science Journalism Awards – Children's Science News
  • Kavli Science Journalism Awards – Magazine
  • Kavli Science Journalism Awards – Newspapers (< 100,000 daily circulation)
  • Kavli Science Journalism Awards – Newspapers (> 100,000 daily circulation)
  • Kavli Science Journalism Awards – Online
  • Kavli Science Journalism Awards – Radio
  • Kavli Science Journalism Awards – Television
  • Leadership in Science Education Prize for High School Teachers
  • Marion Milligan Mason Award: Women in the Chemical Sciences
  • Mani L. Bhaumik Award for Public Engagement with Science (previously AAAS Award for Public Understanding of Science and Technology, established 1987)
  • Mentor Award
  • Mentor Award for Lifetime Achievement
  • Newcomb Cleveland Prize
  • Philip Hauge Abelson Prize
  • Public Engagement with Science Award
  • Scientific Freedom and Responsibility Award
  • John McGovern Lecture
  • William D. Carey Lecture
  • Golden Goose Award

Publications

The intellectual bedrock of the society's publishing endeavors is its flagship publication, Science. This renowned weekly interdisciplinary scientific journal stands as one of the world's most prestigious and widely cited academic periodicals, publishing groundbreaking research across all major scientific disciplines. Its rigorous peer-reviewed content sets the standard for scientific excellence and discovery.

Beyond this venerable journal, the AAAS has cultivated an impressive portfolio known collectively as the "Science family of journals." Each of these specialized publications delves into particular areas of scientific inquiry with the same commitment to rigor and innovation. These include Science Signaling, which focuses on cellular signaling pathways; Science Translational Medicine, bridging basic research with clinical applications; Science Immunology, dedicated to the complexities of the immune system; Science Robotics, exploring the cutting edge of robotic science and engineering; and the broad, open-access interdisciplinary journal, Science Advances.

In addition to its peer-reviewed offerings, the AAAS also publishes the non-peer-reviewed journal, Science & Diplomacy, which explores the intersection of scientific and international policy, a crucial area for informed global decision-making. The society previously maintained the review journal Science Books & Films (SB&F), which provided critical evaluations of scientific literature and media. Furthermore, the AAAS extends its publishing expertise to other organizations through the Science Partner Journals (SPJ) program, a collaborative initiative with a particular focus on facilitating the publication of online-only, open-access journals, thereby expanding the reach and accessibility of scientific research worldwide.

SciLine

SciLine operates as a philanthropically funded and editorially independent service, meticulously designed to serve both journalists and scientists. Its launch was formally announced in an October 27, 2017 article published in Science, marking a significant commitment to improving public understanding of science. The initiative was spearheaded by its founding director, Rick Weiss, a highly experienced professional whose background includes serving as former communications chief at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy and a distinguished tenure as a science reporter at the Washington Post. His expertise positioned SciLine to effectively bridge the gap between complex scientific research and accessible public discourse.

SciLine's explicitly stated mission is to elevate the quantity and enhance the quality of research-backed evidence found in news stories. It achieves this by acting as a crucial conduit, connecting U.S. journalists directly to credible scientists and providing them with validated scientific information, thereby combating the proliferation of misinformation and ensuring accuracy in reporting. Reporters working within the United States can access a suite of invaluable services offered by SciLine. These include an expert-matching service, which pairs journalists with appropriate scientific authorities; general media briefings that offer concise overviews of pressing scientific topics; expert quote sheets for quick and reliable soundbites; and comprehensive quick fact sheets for rapid background information. As of July 2021, SciLine had successfully fulfilled approximately 2,000 requests from a network of 650 journalists through its expert-matching service alone, demonstrating its tangible impact on science journalism.

The financial sustainability and operational independence of SciLine are underpinned by a diverse group of philanthropic supporters. These include the Quadrivium Foundation, the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, the Rita Allen Foundation, and the Heinz Endowments. The AAAS itself provides crucial in-kind support, further solidifying its commitment to this vital public service.

EurekAlert!

In 1996, the AAAS launched EurekAlert!, an editorially independent nonprofit news release distribution service that rapidly became a central hub for scientific information. This platform was conceived to cover all areas of science, medicine, and technology, acting as a global conduit for research findings. EurekAlert! quickly expanded its linguistic reach, providing news in English, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, and Japanese. By 2007, it further broadened its accessibility by adding Chinese, reflecting a commitment to international scientific communication.

The service provides a unique advantage for working staff journalists and qualified freelancers: registered members can access the latest scientific studies and obtain embargoed information before its official publication. This adherence to embargoed releases is carefully managed to comply with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission's Regulation Fair Disclosure policy, ensuring that sensitive information is released equitably. By early 2018, the scale of EurekAlert!'s operation was considerable, with over 14,000 reporters from more than 90 countries registered for free access to its embargoed materials. On the supply side, more than 5,000 active public information officers from 2,300 universities, academic journals, government agencies, and medical centers were credentialed to provide new releases to reporters and the public through the system, creating a vast ecosystem of scientific dissemination.

The success of EurekAlert! did not go unnoticed, and in 1998, European science organizations launched their own press release distribution service, AlphaGalileo, as a direct counterpart. However, EurekAlert! has not been without its critics. It has faced scrutiny for a perceived lack of stringent press release standards, with some arguing that the sheer volume and varied quality of releases can make it difficult for journalists to discern truly significant findings from less robust research. Furthermore, it has been criticized for potentially contributing to the phenomenon of "churnalism," where journalists, under pressure to produce content quickly, may simply re-report press releases without sufficient independent investigation or critical analysis. It seems that even the best intentions in information dissemination can occasionally fall victim to the relentless demands of the news cycle.

See also