American Philosophical Society

About the organization

The American Philosophical Society, the oldest learned society in the United States, was founded in 1743 by Benjamin Franklin for the purpose of “promoting useful knowledge”. It honors and engages leading scholars, scientists, and professionals through elected membership and opportunities for interdisciplinary, intellectual fellowship, particularly in the semi-annual Meetings. It also supports research and discovery through grants and fellowships, lectures, publications, prizes, exhibitions, and public education.