John Polanyi receives American Physical Society's Andrei Sakharov Prize
Published: October 21, 2021
Emeritus John Polanyi is the recipient of – the first researcher from a Canadian institution to receive the recognition.
Named for the famed nuclear physicist, Nobel laureate, and activist for disarmament, peace and human rights, the award recognizes outstanding leadership of scientists in upholding human rights.
Polanyi is recognized for “seven decades of tireless activism for a nuclear-weapons-free world, for upholding human rights and freedom of speech globally, for public education on the essential role of science in society, and for his visionary approach to bringing about a hopeful, peaceful future,” the citation says.
“My qualifications for this marvelous prize are slim,” Polanyi says. “I have done a scientist's normal work as a citizen.”
Nobel laureate Polanyi has spent the greater part of a century voicing his strong belief that scientists have a responsibility to involve themselves in the defence of human rights. When Sakharov spoke out against weapons, Polanyi spoke out for Sakharov.
“I wrote to colleagues across Canada. We then petitioned the Soviet leaders to listen to Sakharov's warnings, rather than persecute him,” Polanyi says. “When later Sakharov and I met, he told me that such protests ultimately saved him.
“He was clear-thinking and very brave. He lives on as an inspiration to all who speak out for humanity, and for the role of freedom of thought if we are to have a future.”
Professor Rob Batey, chair of the department of chemistry, said the prize “serves as a reminder of the role that scientists can play in advancing and advocating on issues of broader societal importance.
“This award is a wonderful recognition of the contributions of Prof. Polanyi in protecting human rights and fighting nuclear weapons proliferation.”
Melanie Woodin, dean of the Faculty of Arts & Science, congratulated Polanyi on the recognition.
“Not only has he dedicated his career to scientific research in chemistry, he has also been a tireless defender of human rights and a strong advocate for a nuclear-weapons free world. He is an incredibly worthy recipient of this prize.”
