Biological Society of Washington

The Biological Society of Washington is a non-profit scientific organization that was established on December 3, 1880, in Washington, D.C., United States. Its initial purpose was to encourage the study of biological sciences and host meetings where papers could be read and discussed. Over time, the society's primary function has evolved to focus on the advancement of taxonomic study and the dissemination of taxonomic knowledge.

History and Affiliations

The Biological Society of Washington was one of the founding organizations of the Washington Academy of Sciences in 1898. This affiliation underscores its commitment to collaborative scientific endeavors in the region. Notable past presidents of the society include George Brown Goode, Frederick Vernon Coville, Edward William Nelson, and Leonhard Hess Stejneger, among others.

Publications

The society publishes two main journals:

• Proceedings of the Biological Society of Washington: This journal has been in publication since 1918 and contains peer-reviewed papers focusing on systematics in biological sciences (botany and zoology), paleontology, and proceedings from society meetings. It is published continuously throughout the year and is highly respected for its content on taxonomic studies and scientific discoveries.

• Bulletin of the Biological Society of Washington: Although the Bulletin's publication ceased with Volume 134 in 2021, it played a significant role in disseminating biological knowledge through its quarterly issues.

Membership and Governance

The Biological Society of Washington has about 250 members, including staff from esteemed organizations like the Smithsonian Institution, the U.S. National Museum, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the U.S. Department of the Interior. The society's governing council includes elected officers and selected local members.

Impact and Controversies

In 2004, the Biological Society of Washington gained international attention due to the Sternberg peer review controversy. This incident involved the publication of a paper supportive of intelligent design in the Proceedings of the Biological Society of Washington, sparking significant debate within the scientific community about peer review processes and the publication of controversial topics.

Non-Profit Status

The Biological Society of Washington operates as a non-profit organization with an EIN of 526060152, reflecting its commitment to serving public interests through scientific research and education.

Conclusion

The Biological Society of Washington continues to play a pivotal role in advancing biological sciences, particularly in the field of taxonomy. Its rich history and ongoing contributions to scientific knowledge make it a respected entity in the global scientific community.