American Philosophical Society

American Philosophical Society, international organization that promotes excellence and useful knowledge in the sciences and humanities through scholarly research, professional meetings, publications, library resources, and community service. The society was founded in 1743 by Benjamin Franklin, the well-known American printer, author, diplomat, philosopher, and scientist. United States President Thomas Jefferson, also the society's third president, involved the society in the Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804-1806), which he commissioned.

The American Philosophical Society's library houses manuscripts and printed collections documenting the history of science, the library's primary focus; other areas covered include medicine, technology, Native North American linguistics, anthropology, and early American culture. The library also has in its collection one of the original copies of the Declaration of Independence; a large collection of Benjamin Franklin's letters, books, and experimental equipment; the Charter of Privileges issued by William Penn, founder of the former colony of Pennsylvania; and the original Lewis and Clark journals.

In 1993 the American Philosophical Society had 700 members, including about 100 Nobel Prize laureates. The society awards medals for achievements in various fields, including public service; the arts, humanities, and social sciences; and navigation, astronomy, and natural philosophy. The society publishes books; several journals; Year Book, an annual directory; and the American Philosophical Society News, a newsletter which is published three times each year. In addition, the society sponsors seven research grant programs. Its headquarters is in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Reviewed by: American Philosophical Society