As well as being Donald Trump's newest close advisor, Elon Musk is also involved in science and technology. Indeed, the Tesla and SpaceX CEO is always looking for opportunities to drive progress in the scientific community. However, thousands of scientists from the Royal Society are now calling for his dismissal from the organisation, following his latest controversial statements. Find out everything you need to know below.
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Scientists call for Elon Musk's exclusion from Royal Society
Elon Musk first became a member of the Royal Society in 2018, with the organisation recognizing his work on SpaceX, Tesla, and Neuralink, among others. However, in February 2025, 3,500 scientists from around the world signed an open letter, urging the Royal Society to terminate the billionaire's membership. The letter was written in light of Elon Musk's recent controversial statements, and these scientists claim he is promoting 'unfounded conspiracy theories'. They also believe his behaviour to be 'malicious', and going against the Society's historic code of conduct, which reads:
When speaking or publicising statements in a personal capacity, fellows and foreign members must still strive to uphold the reputation of the society and those who work in it, and be mindful that what is said or stated in a personal capacity could still impact the society.
The letter also stems from Elon Musk's decision, as the head of the US Department of Government Efficiency, to wipe out the Institute of Education Sciences. The move was labelled as the 'apocalypse of American science' by scientists. Following a meeting in early March 2025, the Royal Society has decided to protect Elon Musk's membership.
However, in an official statement they did explain there was a 'need for the Society to step up its efforts to advocate for science and scientists at a time when these are under threat as never before.'
What is the Royal Society?
The Royal Society was founded in London, on 28 November 1660. The goal was, and remains, to use science as a way to improve life and drive progress to know more about humans and the world we inhabit. It is the oldest scientific organisation in the world, and gathered iconic figures such as John Locke and Isaac Newton. According to the official Royal Society website, the goal is:
The Royal Society’s fundamental purpose, reflected in its founding Charters of the 1660s, is to recognise, promote and support excellence in science and to encourage the development and use of science for the benefit of humanity.
Read more:
Who are Elon Musk’s siblings? Everything to know about Kimbal and Tosca Musk
Inside the life of Elon Musk: His family, career, and surprising facts you didn't know
Sources used:
Mirror: Royal Society makes major Elon Musk decision after scientists call to expel him
Royal Society: Who we are
