Home / Science / DNA Pioneer Watson Faces Fallout Over Intelligence Claims
DNA Pioneer Watson Faces Fallout Over Intelligence Claims
3 Nov
Summary
- James Watson canceled his UK book tour due to controversial remarks.
- He was suspended as chancellor of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory.
- Watson apologized for comments suggesting racial differences in intelligence.
DNA scientist James Watson has canceled his planned UK book tour and is returning to the United States to discuss his position as head of a leading research laboratory. This comes after Watson reportedly suggested that black people possess lower intelligence than white people.
Watson, a Nobel laureate known for his work on the structure of DNA, had been in the UK to promote his latest book. Following widespread criticism and offense caused by his remarks, several speaking engagements were canceled, including events in London and Bristol.
He has since issued an unreserved apology, expressing that he was mortified by the offense his comments caused. Watson hinted that his words may have been taken out of context, emphasizing that there is no scientific basis for such a belief.
In light of the controversy, Watson, 79, has reportedly been suspended as chancellor of the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory in New York. He is understood to be heading back to the US to have discussions regarding his future at the institution.
