Association of Los Alamos Scientists

The Association of Los Alamos Scientists was founded on August 30, 1945, by a group of scientists who had worked on the development of the atomic bomb. The organizational manifesto declared its purpose to be “to promote the attainment and use of scientific and technological advances in the best interests of humanity.” The scientists went on to recognize that they, “by virtue of their special knowledge, have, in certain spheres, special political and social responsibilities beyond their obligations as individual citizens.” The association believed it could carry out these responsibilities by keeping its members informed, “and by providing a forum through which their views can be publicly and authoritatively expressed.” The ALAS concentrated its activities principally in promoting international control of atomic energy and channeling it into peaceful uses. It also concerned itself with public promotion of science, mainly through federal legislation, and the freedom and integrity of scientists and scientific research. The group undertook a program of public education on the nature and control of atomic energy through lectures, films, and exhibits, and the distribution of literature. It attempted to influence public policy by authoritative statements to the press and correspondence with high government officials and congressmen.

From the guide to the Association of Los Alamos Scientists. Records, 1945-1948, (Special Collections Research Center University of Chicago Library 1100 East 57th Street Chicago, Illinois 60637 U.S.A.)

...