The Royal Society, the world’s most prestigious scientific organisation, recently convened to discuss the conduct of its fellows. The meeting followed a wave of controversy, including the resignation of two high-profile fellows and a petition signed by nearly 3,500 scientists. At the centre of the debate was one particularly contentious figure: Elon Musk.
Musk, who was honoured with membership of the Royal Society in 2018 for his technological advancements, has recently come under fire for behaviour that appears to breach the Society’s code of ethics. His vocal criticism of science and scientists has drawn widespread condemnation, with many experts warning that his actions pose a serious “threat to science.”

Do Elon Musk’s actions represent a ‘Threat to Science’?

Musk’s conduct has sparked outrage within the scientific community, particularly due to his involvement with the Trump administration’s “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE). His outspoken attacks on science—especially his criticism of Dr Anthony Fauci and other public scientists—have been seen as part of a broader campaign to undermine scientific integrity. Such actions stand in direct opposition to the values upheld by the Royal Society and risk damaging public trust in science.
According to the BBC, the Royal Society acknowledged these concerns, stating that its members were particularly alarmed by the growing threats to scientific research in the US, including potential funding cuts.
The Society pledged to “investigate possible further action” to “counter misinformation and ideologically motivated attacks on science and scientists.” Musk’s actions must also be viewed within the broader context of attacks on science during the Trump administration. Policies enacted under this government restricted scientific research, silenced climate scientists, and defunded critical programmes. As a highly influential figure during this period, Musk played a key role in amplifying anti-science rhetoric. His public behaviour—ranging from verbal attacks on scientists to obstructing evidence-based policymaking—only serves to weaken the foundations of scientific inquiry.

Royal Society’s response to protect scientific integrity

As an institution that prides itself on maintaining the highest ethical standards, the Royal Society has a responsibility to ensure that its fellows uphold these principles. If the Society were to take action against a fellow whose conduct clearly contradicts its values, it would send a strong message that ethical integrity takes precedence over status or influence. Musk’s actions, in this case, are evidently at odds with the Royal Society’s code of conduct. By failing to address his behaviour, the Society risks undermining its own credibility and reputation.
The decision not to act against Musk is not just an internal matter for the Royal Society—it carries significant consequences for the broader scientific community. Some argue that expelling Musk would politicise science and erode public trust, but this perspective ignores a fundamental truth: scientific institutions must be willing to defend ethical principles, even when doing so conflicts with political or corporate interests.
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