Dutch universities split over physicist Debye's rehabilitation
Science: Allegations that the late Dutch physicist Peter Debye was cozy with the Nazis before and during World War II have produced a split decision among schools who once honored him. Following the advice of an independent committee, Utrecht University last week exonerated the Nobelist by restoring the name of its Debye Institute for NanoMaterials Science. But Maastricht University, in Debye's hometown, rejected the advice and removed his name from a scientific prize permanently.
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It should be added that the Hustinx Foundation of Maastricht, originator and sponsor of the Peter Debye Prize previously given out through Maastricht University, announced in Febraury 2008 that it will continue to have the Peter Debye prize awarded. The City of Maastricht has also stated that it sees no reason to change the names of Debye Street and Debye Square. The Dutch Royal Academy of Sciences has declared it is retaining Debye as an honorary member. The University of Maastricht's decision to not accept the advice of the Ministry of Educations's Terlouw Committee seems to be an isolated stance in Debye's hometown and country.
Posted by: N. Debye | February 25, 2008 6:37 AM