Benjamin Franklin Medal (Royal Society of Arts)

The Benjamin Franklin Medal, awarded by the Royal Society of Arts (RSA), is a medal presented to individuals who have made significant contributions to progress, innovation, and public service. It is one of the RSA's highest honors.

The medal is named in honor of Benjamin Franklin, a prominent polymath, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, and a Fellow of the RSA. Franklin exemplified the values of the RSA, being an advocate for practical improvement, social progress, and the application of knowledge for the betterment of society.

The Benjamin Franklin Medal recognizes achievements across a broad range of fields, including science, technology, industry, commerce, and the arts. The criteria for selection emphasize the impact of the recipient's work on addressing societal challenges and contributing to a more just and sustainable world. The specific focus and criteria for the medal may vary over time to reflect evolving priorities and global issues.

The RSA presents the Benjamin Franklin Medal to individuals whose work has demonstrated originality, creativity, and a commitment to positive social impact. Recipients are typically leaders and innovators in their respective fields, whose contributions have had a transformative effect on society. The award serves to highlight their achievements and inspire others to pursue similar goals.

The RSA's other awards and programs, such as fellowships and research initiatives, often complement the Benjamin Franklin Medal in promoting its mission of fostering innovation and social progress.