Exeter academic honoured for role in advancement of science

The American Association for the Advancement of Science is the world’s largest general scientific society, and publisher of the journal, Science. Its mission is to “advance science and serve society” through initiatives in science policy, international programs, science education, and more. It has awarded fellowships to 503 members because of their scientifically or socially distinguished efforts to advance science or its applications.

Professor Dupré was elected for distinguished contributions to the history and philosophy of science, especially to the interpretation of Darwinian theories.  In 2009 he was heavily involved in the bicentenary anniversary celebrations of Darwin.  Professor Dupré has tried to oppose the dogmatic way that evolutionary theory is often now presented and insists that Darwinism remains an active and rapidly developing area of science. 

Professor Dupré said, “Darwin was a brilliant scientist, but we have moved beyond him. This argument draws on the investigations of contemporary biology by myself and colleagues at Egenis. I believe, incidentally, that this perspective is essential if Darwin is to be given proper credit as a scientist: science is about progressive improvement of understanding, not rigid doctrine.”

He added, “I’m delighted by the recognition that election as a Fellow of the AAAS implies, not just for my own work, but for the work of all my colleagues in Egenis who have made it possible.”

New Fellows will be presented with an official certificate and a gold and blue rosette pin (representing science and engineering, respectively) during the 2011 AAAS Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C., USA on 19 February.