Kistler Prize
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The annual Kistler Prize recognizes original contributions to the understanding of the connection between the human genome and human society, especially those contributions stemming from research conducted with courage and conviction despite opposition from peers or the public.
 The
Purpose
The Kistler Prize was created out of
concern for the long-term future of humanity.
Leaders of human societies – constrained
by relatively short-term problems related to economics, education,
poverty, trade, and international affairs – often show little interest
in addressing issues that have consequences for the long-term future
of humanity. This attitude has been prevalent from the beginning of
the industrial revolution and continues today. At the same time, because
of wondrous technological achievements and political ideologies, we
have affected reproduction, resulting in higher growth rates of population.
The rules of Darwinian selection are being changed, thus affecting
the evolutionary processes that have determined the human genome.
Our
goal is to raise concerns about the future, to end the “head
in the sand” attitude that seems to prevail in human organizations,
private and public. Unbiased research into the connection between the
human genome and human society, culture, and tradition is urgently
needed. The role of nature and of nurture in the development of a human
being needs to be better understood.
The purpose of the Kistler Prize
is to acknowledge and encourage scientific research that demonstrates
the connections between current genetic trends in human populations
and the long-term impact on the viability and survivability of the
human race, society, and culture.
The Award
The Kistler Prize consists of a US$100,000
cash award and a specially designed 180-gram gold medallion seated
in a leaded glass sculpture. It is named for Walter P. Kistler, originator
of the award program and benefactor of the Foundation For the Future.
The
Prize is awarded annually to a scientist or research institution
that has, with courage and wisdom, pursued the truth and made original,
substantive, and innovative contributions in the study of the connections
between the human genome and human society.
Please go to the NOMINATION
PROCESS page for eligibility requirements.
The Award Banquet and Ceremony
 The
Kistler Prize is presented personally by Walter Kistler at a formal
banquet and ceremony. Recipients of the Prize – whether they are
individuals or representatives of research institutions – must
attend the ceremony in person as a condition of receiving the Prize.
The Foundation makes all arrangements for this formal event. Guests
include distinguished academic, business, and political leaders.
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