FAS: Advancing Science and Advocating for a Secure and Prosperous World

Background

The Federation of American Scientists (FAS) is a non-profit think tank dedicated to the application of science and technology to public policy issues. Founded in 1945 by a group of scientists who had worked on the Manhattan Project, FAS has been a leading voice in the science and security policy arena for over 75 years.

Mission and Goals

FAS's mission is to "inform the public about science and technology issues and to provide policymakers with scientific and technical advice to promote sound decision-making." The organization's goals include:

• Promoting the responsible use of science and technology for the benefit of society.
• Educating the public about complex scientific and technical issues.
• Influencing public policy through scientific research, analysis, and advocacy.

Key Activities

FAS engages in a wide range of activities to achieve its mission, including:

• Conducting independent research on science and security issues.
• Publishing reports, articles, and other materials to inform policymakers and the public.
• Organizing conferences and workshops to bring together experts and stakeholders.
• Testifying before Congress and other government bodies.
• Advocating for policies that promote science, security, and sustainability.

Areas of Expertise

FAS has expertise in a wide range of science and technology policy areas, including:

• Energy
• Climate change
• Nuclear weapons proliferation
• Biotechnology
• Artificial intelligence
• Cybersecurity

Impact

FAS has had a significant impact on public policy over the years. For example, FAS research and advocacy played a key role in:

• The passage of the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty in 1963.
• The establishment of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty in 1996.
• The adoption of policies to promote clean energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Why FAS Matters

FAS matters because it provides:

• Independent and authoritative scientific information to policymakers and the public.
• A voice for science and technology in public policy debates.
• A bridge between the scientific community and the policymaking process.

Benefits of FAS

The benefits of FAS include:

• Improved public understanding of science and technology issues.
• More informed decision-making by policymakers.
• Reduced risks of nuclear weapons proliferation and other threats to global security.
• Promoted sustainability and economic prosperity.

FAQ

1. What is the Federation of American Scientists (FAS)?

FAS is a non-profit think tank that promotes the responsible use of science and technology for the benefit of society.

2. What does FAS do?

FAS conducts independent research, publishes reports, organizes conferences, and advocates for policies that promote science, security, and sustainability.

3. What is the history of FAS?

FAS was founded in 1945 by a group of scientists who had worked on the Manhattan Project.

4. Who funds FAS?

FAS is funded by a variety of sources, including foundations, corporations, and government grants.

5. What are some of FAS's most notable accomplishments?

FAS played a key role in the passage of the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty and the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty.

6. How can I support FAS?

You can support FAS by donating, becoming a member, or volunteering your time.

Call to Action

FAS needs your support to continue its vital work of informing the public about science and technology issues and advocating for sound policies that promote science, security, and sustainability. Please consider donating, becoming a member, or volunteering your time.

Stories and Lessons

Story 1: The Nuclear Test Ban Treaty

In the 1950s and 1960s, FAS played a leading role in the campaign to ban nuclear weapons tests. FAS scientists provided the public and policymakers with detailed information about the health and environmental risks of nuclear testing. FAS also advocated for the passage of the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, which was signed in 1963 and has been ratified by over 180 countries.

Lesson: FAS's work on the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty demonstrates the power of science to inform public policy and reduce the risks of nuclear weapons proliferation.

Story 2: The Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty

In the 1990s, FAS was a key player in the effort to establish the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT). The CTBT prohibits all nuclear weapons tests, regardless of their size or location. FAS provided technical expertise to negotiators and advocates, and helped to build public support for the treaty. The CTBT was adopted by the United Nations in 1996, but has not yet entered into force because it has not been ratified by all of the required countries.

Lesson: FAS's work on the CTBT shows the importance of persistence and advocacy in achieving long-term policy goals.

Story 3: The Paris Agreement on Climate Change

In 2015, FAS played a role in the negotiations that led to the adoption of the Paris Agreement on climate change. FAS scientists provided technical analysis and policy recommendations to negotiators, and helped to educate the public about the science of climate change. The Paris Agreement commits countries to take action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit global warming.

Lesson: FAS's work on the Paris Agreement demonstrates the importance of using science to inform policymakers and promote sustainable policies.

Useful Tables

Table 1: FAS Funding Sources

Table 2: FAS Areas of Expertise

Table 3: FAS Impact on Public Policy