Royal Society's Controversial Decision on Elon Musk's Fellowship

The Royal Society will not pursue action against Elon Musk, despite members meeting to discuss misconduct concerns. Musk was elected a fellow in 2018, but 3,500 scientists called for his ousting over alleged code of conduct breaches and ties with former president Trump.

The Royal Society, the oldest national scientific academy, has decided against taking any disciplinary action against Elon Musk, one of its high-profile fellows, British media reported. This decision followed a meeting to address concerns regarding Musk's conduct, which were raised by thousands of scientists.

Elon Musk, known for his technological contributions to space travel and electric vehicles, has been a fellow of the Royal Society since 2018. Despite being a polarizing figure, the Royal Society's president, Adrian Smith, communicated to members that initiating disciplinary proceedings could harm the Society's reputation.

An open letter, signed by nearly 3,500 scientists, had expressed disappointment over the Society's perceived inaction, citing Musk's embracement of conspiracy theories and his association with Trump as violations of the Society's code of conduct. Musk has yet to comment on the matter.

(With inputs from agencies.)