From the President

From its founding in 1780, the mission of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences has been to examine the most complex issues of the day through the extraordinary and interdisciplinary strength of its membership. Ever since, the Academy has contributed critical insights into the moments that have defined our nation’s history, such as the post–World War II recovery and the creation of the field of arms control during the Cold War. However, there have been other times when our voices have been silent. There is, for example, no record in the Academy’s work of the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic and very little in relation to the civil rights movement. These, I believe, would have been instructive research and learning references in light of the profound events of this year.

It is, therefore, with gratitude that I submit this report on our projects, publications, and programs from the past year. Our members are lending their voices to today’s deeply challenging issues, from the importance of the arts in free expression, education, and civic engagement, to negotiating the complexities of new nuclear states, to protecting those who serve on the front lines of violence and conflict, to shining a light on the inequities of our criminal justice system, to strengthening the practice of democratic citizenship. New and emerging projects will help promote environmental sustainability, understand the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and examine the underpinnings of growing disparities in wealth and opportunity in our country.

The work described herein is made possible thanks to the philanthropy of our members. I am deeply grateful for such support that enables the Academy to elevate the use of evidence and knowledge, foster civil discourse, and advance the common good. I look forward to our continued work together in pursuit of these goals.

David W. Oxtoby