The Royal Society of London for the Improvement of Natural Knowledge

The Royal Society was set up in 1660 to debate the fast-developing world of science. It is now the UK 's academy of science, promoting excellence by funding research, and influencing policy and education. Many eminent scientists have been associated with it but the Society has been attacked in a recent Lancet editorial for being 'lazy' and 'self-serving'. Astronomer and visiting fellow of the RS, John Gribbin has just written a book about the Society -- "The Fellowship: The Story of a Revolution". He and Professor Mark Pepys argue that the role of the Royal Society is as important, if not more so, today, when science is having such a massive and ever-changing impact on all of our lives.