James Watson, dead at 97, was a scientific legend and a pariah among his peers
11 days ago
- #James Watson
- #DNA double helix
- #scientific controversy
- James Watson, co-discoverer of DNA's double helix structure, died at 97, marking the end of an era in biology.
- Watson's scientific achievements include leading Harvard's biology department into the molecular era and transforming Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory into a genetics and cancer research powerhouse.
- Despite his scientific contributions, Watson's legacy is marred by public and unrepentant racist and sexist remarks, which made him a pariah in later years.
- Watson's controversial views on race and intelligence, influenced by 'The Bell Curve,' led to widespread criticism and severed ties with institutions.
- Friends and colleagues describe Watson as intuitive and brilliant but also arrogant, with a disdain for establishment thinking that sometimes led to his downfall.
- Watson's later years were characterized by a refusal to recant his controversial beliefs, even as they overshadowed his scientific achievements.