Jeremy J. Stone (November 23, 1935 – January 1, 2017) was an American scientist, policy advocate and activist best known for three decades of leadership at the Federation of American Scientists. Stone combined technical knowledge with public policy work to address nuclear risks and global security. Under his direction FAS became a prominent voice on arms control, civil liberties and science policy, while Stone himself later founded the organization Catalytic Diplomacy to pursue informal channels for conflict prevention and rights advocacy.

Work and approach

Stone emphasized the use of scientific expertise in policymaking and favored pragmatic, often unconventional, engagement with foreign counterparts and civil society. He supported measures to reduce proliferation, improve verification of agreements, and limit the role of weapons in international affairs. His approach blended research, public education, and direct outreach; some of his methods—informal back channels and private meetings—were praised for opening possibilities when formal diplomacy stalled, and criticized by others for bypassing routine governmental procedures.

Federation of American Scientists and Catalytic Diplomacy

As president of the Federation of American Scientists from 1970 to 2000, Stone oversaw research programs, public reports and advocacy campaigns on defense policy, arms control verification, and human rights. After retiring from FAS, he continued related work at Catalytic Diplomacy, an organization he created to pursue practical, people‑to‑people interventions in international disputes and to support persecuted individuals. The work touched on wider human rights and foreign policy concerns rather than being limited to technical arms control questions.

Background and significance

Born in New York City, New York, Stone studied at Swarthmore College and at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His career is noted for linking scientific communities with public affairs, for encouraging verification and transparency in treaty implementation, and for cultivating networks of experts across borders. His tenure at FAS helped shape debates about nuclear policy during the Cold War and the post‑Cold War period.

Legacy and final years

Stone retired from FAS in 2000 but remained active in advocacy until his death. He died in Carlsbad, California, on January 1, 2017, at age 81 from complications of prostate cancer. His legacy is remembered in the continued influence of science‑based policy work and in the institutions and networks he helped build to address arms control, human rights and the practical mechanics of international diplomacy.

  • Major roles: President, Federation of American Scientists (1970–2000); founder, Catalytic Diplomacy.
  • Focus areas: nuclear risk reduction, verification, scientific input to policy, human rights engagement.
  • Notable methods: combining technical analysis with public advocacy and informal diplomacy.