The purpose of the organization was "to promote the attainment and use of scientific and technological advances in the best interests of humanity", according to the manifesto, available in the archives of the University of Chicago. The scientists believed that they, "by virtue of their special knowledge, have, in certain spheres, special political and social responsibilities beyond their obligations as individual citizens". The association sought to carry out these responsibilities by keeping its members informed, "and by providing a forum through which their views can be publicly and authoritatively expressed".