Student Pugwash is an international youth organization that promotes awareness and action among students and youth in relation to ethical implications of science and technology policy, particularly matters of international security and weapons development .
Organization
The organization can be separated into international, national, and school or university levels. At the international level is International Student Young Pugwash (ISYP), which primarily addresses security issues and acts as the central body of national entities. National entities include Student Pugwash USA (SPUSA), the largest, and Student Pugwash UK (SPUK) among others. The national groups are either loose coalitions of students or campus organizations, or are registered non-profit organizations in themselves, as is SPUSA.
History
Student Pugwash grew out of the Pugwash Conferences, when students who attended these conferences recognizied a need to foster greater student interest and activity. In 1979, SPUSA was founded, and comprises a network of school and campus chapters across the country.
Pledge
To encourage commitment to socially respoinsible applications of science and technology, Student Pugwash USA offers the following pledge for individuals to sign:
"I promise to work for a better world, where science and technology are used in socially responsible ways. I will not use my education for any purpose intended to harm human beings or the environment. Throughout my career, I will consider the ethical implications of my work before I take action. While the demands placed upon me may be great, I sign this declaration because I recognize that individual responsibility is the first step on the path to peace."
External links
Last updated: 05-26-2005 18:21:52
