THE AMERICAN GEOSCIENCES INSTITUTE AND SERVICE TO SOCIETY AND THE EARTH

The collection of new data and analyses occurs at such a rapid pace today that researchers across all sectors, policy- and decision-makers, the media, and the public often have difficulty processing and implementing the information in a timely way that also takes into context relevant historical events and records, and other forms of knowledge and evidence. As the geosciences community marks the 75th anniversary of the American Geosciences Institute (AGI), reflecting upon the origins and context of AGI’s establishment may help (re)calibrate how geoscientists think about and conduct scientific research within the Earth system and how the existence of professional societies can evolve to help meet the major challenges the Earth and its living systems are experiencing today. The AGI was established as an instrument of the National Research Council (NRC) of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences in 1948. The original articles of organization describe the relationship of AGI to NRC and note the purpose of the organization as one directed toward “the establishment of geology and its application to human welfare by providing a means for the cooperation of organizations active in the fields of pure and applied geology.” Dr. Detlev Bronk’s recollections of the origins of AGI, which he wrote in Geotimes on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of AGI, described the process which culminated in AGI’s establishment and which included the need to: generate closer relations among the geological sciences and physics, chemistry, and biology; encourage geoscientists to be active in providing scientific service to the nation; cooperate with educators and media so that all can understand more about the Earth, the ocean, and the atmosphere; and advance the geosciences as a whole, regardless the specialization of any individual geoscientist. These fundamental tenets of interdisciplinary work, contributing to broader societal advancement and education, and constantly seeking to advance the understanding of the Earth system resonate as much today as they did when AGI was created. They also serve as a call to renew commitment to support a new generation of diverse geoscientists who can use modern tools and all forms of knowledge to benefit the health of this planet.