TLS, two pages, 8.5 x 11, no date but circa 1981. Sagan writes to The Explorers Club regarding the admission of women to the organization. In part: “The human zest for exploration and discovery is the hallmark of our species and one of the secrets of our success. It is a tradition that goes back much further than the 76 proud years in which The Explorers Club has been in existence…Traditions are important. They provide continuity with our past. But it is up to us to decide which traditions are essential to The Explorers Club and which are accidents of the epoch in which it was institutionalized. Times have changed since 1905. It is very clear that a foolish rigidity can destroy otherwise worthwhile institutions…Today women are making extraordinary contributions in areas of fundamental interest to our organization. There are several women astronauts…I do not believe that the primary function of our organization is to promote male bonding or to serve as a social club—although there is certain room for both…admission should be open to all qualified members of the human species.” In fine condition. Founded in 1904, The Explorers Club promotes scientific exploration of land, sea, air, and space. In 1981, the club admitted its first class of women. RRAuction COA.
