On Being Accused
Neil deGrasse Tyson
For a variety of reasons, most justified, some unjustified, men accused of sexual impropriety in today’s “me-too” climate are presumed to be guilty by the court of public opinion. Emotions bypass due-process, people choose sides, and the social media wars begin.
In any claim, evidence matters. Evidence always matters. But what happens when it’s just one person’s word against another’s, and the stories don’t agree? That’s when people tend to pass judgment on who is more credible than whom. And that’s when an impartial investigation can best serve the truth – and would have my full cooperation to do so.
I’ve recently been publically accused of sexual misconduct. These accusations have received a fair amount of press in the past forty-eight hours, unaccompanied by my reactions. In many cases, it’s not the media’s fault. I declined comment on the grounds that serious accusations should not be adjudicated in the press. But clearly I cannot continue to stay silent. So below I offer my account of each accusation.
The 2009 Incident
I am asked by thousands of people per year to take pictures with them. A flattering, time consuming, but delightful chore. As many in my fan-base can attest, I get almost giddy if I notice you’re wearing cosmic bling – clothing or jewelry or tattoos that portray the universe, either scientifically or artistically. And I make it a priority to point out these adornments for the photograph.
A colleague at a well attended, after-conference, social gathering came up to me to ask for a photograph. She was wearing a sleeveless dress with a tattooed solar system extending up her arm. And while I don’t explicitly remember searching for Pluto at the top of her shoulder, it is surely something I would have done in that situation. As we all know, I have professional history with the demotion of Pluto, which had occurred officially just three years earlier. So whether people include it or not in their tattoos is of great interest to me. I was reported to have “groped” her by searching “up her dress”, when this was simply a search under the covered part of her shoulder of the sleeveless dress.
I only just learned (nine years after) that she thought this behavior creepy. That was never my intent and I’m deeply sorry to have made her feel that way. Had I been told of her discomfort in the moment, I would have offered this same apology eagerly, and on the spot. In my mind’s eye, I’m a friendly and accessible guy, but going forward, I can surely be more sensitive to people’s personal space, even in the midst of my planetary enthusiasm.
Summer 2018 Incident
While filming this past summer, I had a (female) Production Assistant assigned to me, to ensure, among her countless tasks, that every ounce of my energy was efficiently allocated to the production needs of the show. As part of this, she was also my driver, to and from the studio, ensuring that I arrive on time. In the car we would review details of the shoot and she would help me anticipate parts of the shoot to come. Across the many weeks of shooting she and I spent upwards of a hundred hours in one-on-one conversation. We became so friendly that we talked about all manner of subjects, even social-personal ones, like the care of aging parents, sibling relationships, life in high school and college, hometown hobbies, race, gender, and so forth. We also discussed less-personal topics in abundance, like rock lyrics, favorite songs in various musical genres, concert experiences, etc. And we also talked about food – I’m kind of a foodie, and her fiancé was a chef. In short, we had a fun, talkative friendship.
She is a talented, warm and friendly person -- excellent traits for morale on a high pressure production. Practically everyone she knows on set gets a daily welcome-hug from her. I expressly rejected each hug offered frequently during the Production. But in its place I offered a handshake, and on a few occasions, clumsily declared, “If I hug you I might just want more.” My intent was to express restrained but genuine affection.
In the final week of shooting, with just a few days left, as a capstone of our friendship, I invited her to wine & cheese at my place upon dropping me off from work. No pressure. I serve wine & cheese often to visitors. And I even alerted her that others from the production were gathering elsewhere that evening, so she could just drop me off and head straight there or anywhere else. She freely chose to come by for wine & cheese and I was delighted. In the car, we had started a long conversation that could continue unabated. Production days are long. We arrived late, but she was on her way home two hours later. 
Afterwards, she came into my office and told me she was creeped out by the wine & cheese evening. She viewed the invite as an attempt to seduce her, even though she sat across the wine & cheese table from me, and all conversation had been in the same vein as all other conversations we ever had.
Further, I never touched her until I shook her hand upon departure. On that occasion, I had offered a special handshake, one I learned from a Native elder on reservation land at the edge of the Grand Canyon. You extend your thumb forward during the handshake to feel the other person’s vital spirit energy -- the pulse. I’ve never forgotten that handshake, and I save it in appreciation of people with whom I’ve developed new friendships.
At that last meeting in my office, I apologized profusely. She accepted the apology. And I assured her that had I known she was uncomfortable, I would have apologized on the spot, ended the evening, and possibly reminded her of the other social gathering that she could attend. She nonetheless declared it her last day, with only a few days left of production.
I note that her final gesture to me was the offer of a hug, which I accepted as a parting friend.
Early 1980s
I entered astrophysics graduate school directly out of college in 1980. It’s a grueling adventure-marathon, and many people do not finish the PhD. In fact, it was not uncommon for half the admitted students to leave after two or three years, finding some other kind of work in their lives. While in graduate school I had several girlfriends, one of whom would become my wife of thirty years, a mathematical physicist -- we met in Relativity class. Over this time I had a brief relationship with a fellow astro-graduate student, from a more recent entering class. I remember being intimate only a few times, all at her apartment, but the chemistry wasn’t there. So the relationship faded quickly. There was nothing otherwise odd or unusual about this friendship.
I didn't see much of her after that time. Our student offices were on different floors of the building and we were not in the same classes. A few years later, I ran into her, pregnant, with who I think was the father by her side. That’s when I had learned that she had dropped out of graduate school. Again, this is not itself an unusual fact, but I nonetheless wished her well in motherhood and in whatever career path would follow.
More than thirty years later, as my visibility-level took another jump, I read a freshly posted blog accusing me of drugging and raping a woman I did not recognize by either photo or name. Turned out to be the same person who I dated briefly in graduate school. She had changed her name and lived an entire life, married with children, before this accusation.
For me, what was most significant, was that in this new life, long after dropping out of astrophysics graduate school, she was posting videos of colored tuning forks endowed with vibrational therapeutic energy that she channels from the orbiting planets. As a scientist, I found this odd. Meanwhile, according to her blog posts, the drug and rape allegation comes from an assumption of what happened to her during a night that she cannot remember. It is as though a false memory had been implanted, which, because it never actually happened, had to be remembered as an evening she doesn’t remember. Nor does she remember waking up the next morning and going to the office. I kept a record of everything she posted, in case her stories morphed over time. So this is sad, which, for me, defies explanation. 
I note that this allegation was used as a kind of solicitation-bait by at least one journalist to bring out of the woodwork anybody who had any encounter with me that left them uncomfortable.
Overview
I’m the accused, so why believe anything I say? Why believe me at all?
That brings us back to the value of an independent investigation, which FOX/NatGeo (the networks on which Cosmos and StarTalk air) announced that they will conduct. I welcome this. 
Accusations can damage a reputation and a marriage. Sometimes irreversibly. I see myself as loving husband and as a public servant – a scientist and educator who serves at the will of the public. I am grateful for the support I’ve received from those who continue to respect and value me and my work.
Respectfully submitted, Neil deGrasse Tyson, New York City
Bruce Weigand
We all are paying the price for this cause network pulled him off Star Talk, punnishing everyone. Boo Star Talk! Punishing everyone. Good bye!
Anthony Hhc
Im a good judge of character but the facts in this matter don’t need a judgment of @[7720276612:274:Neil deGrasse Tyson] Character but the Facts as we have them with out any other information just the facts as that are presently available show the accusers to exemplify suspect accusations. 2018 , woman left on good terms with Neil , if not then why was not this brought up when she left or as a reason for her leaving and unless Neil is a screwball liar then , if this woman felt objectified sexually then why hug Neil upon departing and why would Neil allow her to hug him... No people this sounds like balderdash this woman’s accusation over a year later makes absolutely no comprehendible sense. For blatantly obvious reasons if this woman story is true. As for the other two who makes accusations years later about events that didn’t even lead to sex in one case and any other that there is no verifiable proof the sex ever took place or any other women that have come forward and said that Neil pull the bill Cosby on me plenty of time is gone past and no one else has come forward with that type of accusation someone who commits those types of crimes drugging women to have sex with them doesn’t just do it once or twice they are a serial rapist. I find these women reprehensible and the stories they told lies... Baseless accusations . For instance the woman claiming she was drugged don’t you think after the bill Cosby incident immediately after that woman’s accusation against Neil would’ve came out then. No I think there’s more going on to this and the reason there is only three women and not 30 I think it is because there is a man out there who is pulling the strings possibly even paying these women to tell the stories they are telling , A man who accused Neil of stealing the show Star Talk from him... my personal opinion is that this man is behind these accusations and if it could be proven this man is looking at going to prison for hedging out this type of criminal conspiracy of which not only is Neil a victim of what so his fox and Nat Geo along with everyone else that is benefiting by the knowledge that they could be learning by watching the show StarTalk. I think this man waited just long enough to see if the show was a success into find these women and get them to agree to commit this crime. It would’ve took a lot of work on the part of this individual and a lot of time and a lot of finessing to drop the bomb the way he did it using these women as his tool of revenge. But that’s just a theory. I’m not a very smart guy. I’m just a guy with a vivid imagination. In any event there is no way Neil in my opinion did these things. I think it’s more likely that this is a re-venge attack against Neil fox and Nat Geo.
Anthony Hhc
Sorry for the choppy grammar I was going to fix it but I decided to leave it . Because this whole story is as outlandish as is my grammar and my attempt at making my self sound intelligent is as insulting to the human eyes and brain as is having to hear lies being told about Neil , good luck im sure you will be vindicated my friend...

@@[7720276612:274:Neil deGrasse Tyson]

Thank you for being a great teacher I have learned so very much from you.
Claudia Ospina Colletti
@[100000358683217:2048:Vincent Leo Colletti] we spoke about the picture thing, that could have been a big misunderstanding and him just not thinking thoroughly about consequences even though that was not his intent or it could have been his attempt to peek, who knows. 2nd incident who the f says if i hug you, i just might want more? Honestly, 100% that would make me uncomfortable. I don't know enough about the 3rd incident to comment but i would imagine if you had drugged and raped a woman the likelyhood of there being more than 1 is high
Rachelle Garcia
So sorry to not be seeing you in Orlando next week. Hope you reschedule soon ♥ ♥ ♥ with @[1316154593:2048:Robert Garcia]
Shane Fagan
@[7720276612:274:Neil deGrasse Tyson] you're my idol I'm want to study astrophysics in college because of you
De Fi
Hang in there Neil. I agree about needing to do investigations, but it doesn't sound like 2 of these 3 are even allegations of sexual misconduct. Yes, we ALL need to mind our personal space and take extreme caution before touching another person anywhere on their body. You are the kind of person who is very friendly and touches the arms and legs of men too from what I've seen on videos, The instances I have seen were not sexual. Yes, we also need to refrain from making sexual comments unless we know each other incredibly well. Touching a woman's shoulder is not sexual misconduct. Having a woman over for consensual wine and cheese is not misconduct. The last allegation would certainly be a criminal offense but remains to be found credible. Some women do take a lifetime to exclaim their abuse, but actual professional investigators need to be the ones to evaluate the evidence.
Mark Anstey
More bullshit brought forward by the me too movement. Innocent tell proven guilty folks.
M David Martinez
I, like Dr. Tyson, believe in the scientific method. There is insufficient evidence to prove or disprove any of the above allegations. I understand why women wait so long to come forward, and so I can sympathize with the emotions they may have felt at the time of these incidences. The clear and concise response of Dr. Tyson is nowhere near what I may suspect from a guilty individual. Someone has insinuated two men who are government high officials as examples of the guilty responding to sexual misconduct accusations. I find it abhorring to mention these two in the same paragraph as Dr. Tyson.
Soror Lilith Meral
It's all lies..it a good person u know it we know it x
Mary Coulston
Idiot!
Mary Coulston
Why does everyone want to be a victim?? I don't care, Neil. We still need you right now to fight the good fight. Ignore these petty people.
Michael Cook
It seems that some people feel that any male - female interaction must be sexually motivated. Sometimes, when you are sure the other person knows exactly how you feel, you are wrong. Obviously this goes both ways. But you need to understand (and not assume) context and intention. Just because you felt uncomfortable, it doesn't mean the other person was thinking the way you thought they were. It seems, these days, it has become almost impossible to have a professional but friendly relationship with someone you work with lest it be misconstrued. I think this is becoming dangerous.
Courtney Leigh Hudson
Thank you for sharing your response to accusations. Thank you for offering apology and taking responsibility for harmless, yet relevant areas of communication where you found room for improvement. We could all use more practice with personal accountability and our willingness to grow.

Thank you for all of the countless hours you have spent (and spend) studying, writing, thinking, and expressing what you have learned (and seek to learn) in a way that is so uniquely accessible yet quirky and badass. To so many of us, you are a source of much inspiration. Nothing has changed. Shine on, cosmic rockstar!
Cem Azer
👌✋
Cem Azer
Chris Farmer not all but mostly, feninism is appear as anti male racism n hate.
Robert Geoghegan
@[100001864982718:2048:Marysia Wyzykowska]
Christian Pace
I hadn't heard of the accusations but I hope they do not effect your ability and will to educate through your public appearances. I totally feel you. You know how you argue that we fear what might happen if aliens visit because we know how it turns out for the less advanced civilization? Well I was born and lived the first 32 years of my life as a woman. Now as a man I feel almost pluralized around women because I know just how often that discomfort isn't communicated and is rationalized away by labeling the guy, whether overtly or secretly, a creep. Says more about their self-respect than it says about your conduct.
Martin Mato
Dear Neil, these accusations seem to me to be nothing more than the accusers' attempt at getting attention. Stay strong.
Григорий Кинзибаев
Hello Neil deGrasse Tyson, I am from Russia, I would like to share with you my discovery. It is connected with the device of our universe and finds confirmation in many physical manifestations.
James Stanley
So sorry for the late post Dr. Tyson. Hang in there man. You still have an audience of followers that believe in you and what you do.
Marilyn Ann Baker
Neil deGrasse TysonI hope all is going well for you. I continue to value your work and all that you have done for the public and I still value you. Waiting for your return
Greg Gill
Just curious about a few things. First off I do not believe the college allegation. It was his gf and they did it a few times. who cares. And the other stuff ,no biggy. There is nothing wrong with being charismatic and friendly. Is it wrong if I meet someone while I'm working and ask them out? Or do I really have to get on with window shopping on fake tinder? I'd rather meet someone in person. Where is the line. When you know it's not mutual? Before you even open your mouth? If it's mutual and you do go out as friend? Or do you have to declare before you take her out as friends you would like to be more? All that kinda messes up the mystery of being man and woman. How far down the rabbit hole is to far when gravity takes over and drags you down to celibacy or abstinence? Is it just to get shuttled into the lime light? Then there's the book deals. TV appearances, talk shows, etc. Come on it's Neil deGrasse Tyson, he is a bad ass educator. One that connects with us all on a understanding level. Don't let this sway how you do what you do. Keep it up.
Veronica Monet
Kyle Lambert you really think that anything showing is up for grabs? So if a man is walking around with his shirt off, then I get the grab his nipples? Really?
Veronica Monet
And now we see where you draw the line with sexual assault. NDT is not assaulting this woman but if he moved her dress so he could see under it, that IS inappropriate unless you ask first, which alas he did not. As for Cavanaugh-I-Like-Beer, he isn't worthy of licking NDT's boots.
Veronica Monet
Bones Burley, I think you must watch a lot of FOX News but you got your phrases confused. No one refers to #MeToo as a "witch hunt." That's Trump's favorite word for the Mueller Investigation.
Veronica Monet
Why do you ask Thomas Beam? You worried someone is going to out you for something you did in the past?
Michaeux White
I always say: The insecure aren't happy until you're insecure too.
Cat White
Evelyn Sutcliffe Amin verbal diarrhoea 🤪
Cat White
Nisha Suzanne are u a Victim too?
Rozlyn Moon
Atiba Morales me too, the vest is 🔥
Cat White
It’s Tragic that u even had to write this to defend yourself!
Omg 😯 with these sad Victims of this World trying to make some fast cash /ruin a marriage /family because they are victims!!
https://youtu.be/OH6KApqmrBk
John Smith
I believe these women because it is our duty to believe sexual assault victims

Imagine how these women feel as they read all these comments saying they believe Tyson.... effectively everyone is calling them liars

Is it right for these women to feel that everyone is calling them liars?
Louisa Tabatabai
Repeating @Micheal Vincent's perfect reply:
Handled with class, intelligence, and dignity. Exactly what I'd expect from Dr. Tyson.
Deanne Lock
I would rather let the courts decide...why the need to defend yourself with your worshippers? I have known Tchiya since 1991 and know her personally and she never mentioned having any relationship besides being in school together and studying together till you drugged and raped her and basically ignored her in the hallway the day after. I had no idea who you were at the time but everytime I brought it up with your cult I was warned as if I was a blasphemer. Funny how that works in atheist cults. Same-same.
Joe Clark
Looks like you two have never heard of the phrase "innocent until proven guilty"
Greg Szymanik
I feel like these women simply crave for attention (in the worst way possible, by hurting others)🤦‍♂️
Artur Piwko
Mark Maccollin I'm a little surprised you didn't know the burden of proof is on the accuser.
Mieczysław Beger
That's really shady for me when somebody gets accused many many years later. I mean, I'm sure I can find some SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE that memories are not reliable after that long time...
Daniel Marco
Neil, head Up! I don't want to argue with any side, I'll just leave a small, rhetorical question here: Why only famous/rich are accused on rape/bad behavior..? Visit literally any bar today tonight, watch what is happening there. And... its not even remembered the day after ;)
What an uncomfortable version of B-Universe we are currently experiencing ;)
Yar Renhcahcs
The problem I have is that it was reported by The website Patheos. who are they lets take a look. Patheos is an interfaith media platform that hosts hundreds of blogs on different faith channels.in late 2016 Patheos was purchased by Beliefnet, which is owned by an evangelical organization, BN Media. On January 30th, 2017 the writers at Patheos suddenly received new contracts their mailboxes. This was not a contract renewal; it was Patheos unilaterally changing the terms of the existing contracts. The contract was due by February 1st, less than 48 hours later, giving writers little time to consider the contract or consult legal counsel.
The contract also prohibited “disparaging” of Patheos or any “related” company. A little online research revealed that Patheos is one of three companies owned by BN Media, LLC. One of the other companies is Affinity4, which is associated number of right-wing organizations, including the NRA, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, Focus on the Family, Concerned Women for America, the American Family Association, and the American Center of Law and Justice.

To take just one example, the American Center for Law & Justice (ACLJ) promotes conservative Christian laws in Africa, including support for a bill in Uganda that would have implemented the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality”. The connection between Patheos and the ACLJ is not hard to trace. Jeremy McGee is President and COO of Patheos, and also also on the 4-person board of Affinity4. Also on the board of Affinity4 is Jay Sekulow, who is is Chief Counsel for the ACLJ.
Under the new contract, ACLJ and the other organizations listed above could be considered “related” companies that Patheos Pagan writers not permitted to “disparage.” Concern over these terms spread to other Patheos channels, including the Progressive Christian channel. that forced a lot of the writers to leave. but you see whos in control and you know how Neil feels about religion and evangelists. this makes me think about the credibility of the stories and why they came through here and not from some credible news outlet.
Bob Winter
Thanks for your explanation. Very well said.
Frederick Crane
hard pills all around. i hope that an investigation might bring a modicum of understanding to all parties. when these bells ring, founded and unfounded, it is my hope that aside from the attempts at justice that our system flounders toward, that a deeper care, understanding and empathy may manifest...if not for those directly involved than perhaps for the audience as public. with a little girl on the cusp of birth, it will be my mission to reinforce certitude, and her ability to reason and react with confidence in a given moment.
Linda Dreblow
You are a delight I worked for an aerospace company in the sixties. I was often the only female in meetings or on remote test sites. Only on one or two occasions did I feel uncomfortable with a gesture from a fellow engineer. Being forthright in my response I would tell them to knock it off My feeling is that a woman knows when she’s uncomfortable and can express her feelings. She also knows if the intention is just being affable or perhaps another intention
Dr Tyson I love your shows and hope to attend your event near SanJose in March
Linda Dreblow
PS. I saw the Hubble in person when it was in the giant clean room st Lockheed
JP Holmes
Love you, Unitarian universalist Church members loves you, my daughter loves you, my mom loves you, yeah best statement ever put out. Your good, thank you for all the inspiration.
Chad Chadson
ugly ass bitch
Dave Laurentino
You will be proven innocent and back to the business of teaching science so that everyone can understand.
Kelayne Castle
Dr. Tyson, the uniintentional invasion of another person's space is a subjective experience, dependent on the people involved, I know you are no Harvey Weinstein, or anything near that.

In the many years I've been alive, going back to childhood, I have had my space invaded and been inappropriately touched, groped and felt on by almost as many women as men. There were a few occasions when I was nearly assaulted. I knew the difference and except in the case of child abuse or another uneven power dynamic most people can assess the difference.

If we use common sense and self-awareness, we can understand intent and whether someone means us harm or if they're being clueless. I would describe most of the uncomfortable or creepy interactions I've had as awkward, by overenthusiastic people who were never told they should back off, just a bit.

I have on occasion, expressed my need for boundaries, but not every time. We all need to find a way to have an open discussion about this. Men aren't the only villains. There are plenty of awkward, embarrassing situations people get into, especially those with the opposite sex.

This too will blow over, when we recognize true predators and the difference between assault and misunderstandings. Women need to find a way to speak up, but not by leaving all men in the space of being sexual predators or potential rapists.
Genevieve Chirelstein
I have enjoyed watching your programs and hearing about this has upset me because I will miss hearing from you.
While I would want to support the women bec of all the past bad acts I have had to endure with men
I think everyone needs to step back
Things are changing rapidly
and everything in human nature when it comes to change happens over time
not over night. My prayers, good vibes, etc are with everyone. Healing will come for all of us.
Sometimes in my life changes have come that I didn’t want, but being forced in another direction may be where one is meant to go.
Matthew Cormier
Welcome to modern liberalism!
Grace Waszkiewicz
Dear Mark - you are desperately trying to please women in your life. Women lie, manipulate, change their stories all the time. Sometimes, they are angry that not enough attention was given to them. So, they take an opportunity of the "revenge"...How do I know that? I am a woman...
Isaiah Ellis
...Brett Kavanaugh is reading this somewhere, weeping tears of relief. Finally, a Democrat who UNDERSTANDS!
Milli Swift Mill
What I just read from you is very clear and makes more sense than anything I read from the women who accused you or support those “victims”; there’s a lot vagueness and what sounds like misunderstanding. In my court of justice, you’re innocent Neil and I got your back 😎
Milli Swift Mill
They’re out! What’s your verdict? 😅
Roland Julius
Jon Walske "always believe the accuser first" doesnt make any sense.
Russell Vernon
Right on
Patrick Thompson
"Nothing to see here"..........Let's go.....Move along.....
PJ Davis
Like others here, I accept Nets version of the ao-called me-to events. He does get giddy and I have always recognized that's a wonderful,self- effacing part of fish per sonality. Hand in their Neil.
Debra Rudy
You have my respect. I love your book, and your mind. I don't believe any of these mudslinging bitches. ♥
Marcy Howell
I hope this experience doesn't cause you to withdraw from people. You have inspired me and my family so much. Thanks to you, Neil, we look up at the stars with wonder and amazement, with an unquenchable thirst to know more. It's not fair what this could possibly do to your personal and professional life. From what I've read and heard these accusations are very weak. I hope you come out of this unscathed. We love you Neil ♥
Ghofranne Souissi
Dr Neil you are undoubtfully one of the greatest minds and one the most influential people in science in the 21st centuary.
The way i see it, what you are going through is the manifestation of what einstein once quoted as : "Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds". We are enthusiastically waiting for the mind-blowing "cosmos: Possible Worlds" <3
Mitchell Bard
Heather, context and intent matter. Learn to read.
Dmitry Maslov
Держись, Нил! Надеюсь, твое имя снова будет звучать только как символ популизации науки!
Valkyrie Crane
Chris Hearn and you win the stupidest comment on the net in 2019. Shut your pie hole soyboy.
Brian Brewer
Bill Bradley well he has been a director then researcher at the museum of natural history since 96 so i wouldnt call it “bullshit goofing as science.” his shows arent the majority of his working career but to the best of my knowledge the majority of his shows have real science in them or real scientific theorems.
Jennifer Gentry
Bill Bradley huh?
Karina Andersen
man Neil deGrasse Tyson you re introduced me to astrophysics I kinda fell apart/away after Carl Sagan died, it wasn't until the new Cosmos that I fell in love with the universe & you,💖💖 stay strong, you know your truth
Marty Parker
#IBelieveEvidence
Lacey Lollar
@[1311274530:2048:Katie Kentner] @[100000153135316:2048:Amanda Olds] didn't seem like you guys had gotten to read this, based on your reaction that one day haha so here you go.
Katie Kentner
@[100022878586119:2048:Lacey Lollar] I’m not sure if you remember but I had said that I would need more info before forming an opinion and that if it did happen it would be heartbreaking. I do appreciate the tag though, I hadn’t read this yet and it explains a lot. 😊
Lacey Lollar
Well, this is some more info to add in😊
KP Hamm
Bob Dorler OMG the hypocrisy and transference of that sign. Irony!
Jon Cates
I see now that the second season of Cosmos is being postponed pending resolution of said allegations, as are episodes of Star Talk.

I've been a fan for a long time. I have enjoyed Star Talk on many occasions, have watched all the You tube videos I could find, and have even attending the stunning show in the Hayden Planetarium. I live in WA. Cosmos was a real treat, as are your The Great Courses offerings, and then of course Joe Rogan.

What's happening to you is hard to watch and I find myself wondering what am enemy of objective truth would look like. I'm counting on the integrity of the process to reveal that objective truth.

In any case, thank you for sharing your career with us. I think I'm a more thoughtful person because you did. You've done good work here Sir and I eagerly await season two of Cosmos.
Graham Vincent
POOR NEIL. It's just the bible bashers and religious freaks way of silencing intelligent people talking about the truth. They see @[7720276612:274:Neil deGrasse Tyson] as a threat to their idiotic beliefs. Leave this man alone and let him speak. Bunch of tossers.
Suzanne Campbell
Emily Wells Looks like you found one of those CREEPS(male feminists) you're so afraid of with Andre here. 😂 Just admit that you're a lesbian and you hate men. People will respect you more for it.
Suzanne Campbell
Andre John Savastano Stop trying so hard. Emily isn't going to have sex with you. Male feminists like you are one of the "fish" that she's after. You are the creep, not Neil Degrasse Tyson.
Kathy Dawson
Stephen Lewis logical fallacies.
Kevin Gaffey
@[1107742688:2048:Daniel Kuleto]
Patty Villareale
I am so sorry that you have to experience these allegations. The MeToo movement has gone too far, and it sickens me.
Michelle Mills
Please come back.
Wayne Mitchell
Like NDT, another great physicist, Lawrence Krauss, was accused of sexual misconduct. Time will tell what will happen to his career.
Joseph Kreifels II
I believe Tyson. When it comes to sexual assault allegations, women lie. This is because we keep giving them the benefit of the doubt. #DontBelieveAllWomen
Nick Sanders
This is getting ridiculous. Sure sexual assault should be called out and the perpetrators dealt with in court, Sure way too much has been let slide in the past, I remember men being described as having "wandering hand syndrome" as a way to laugh it off, again this was wrong, not to mention "the casting couch". But for pities sake having the media destroy your career due to a flirtatious persona, get a grip. Even if, in the Watson case, NDT was trying to seduce her, since when has this been sexual assault? What next if someone wants to seduce another they first have to ask "hey I really like you, is it ok if I try to seduce you?"
Bill Tkach
Don't let us down. I only see one side of your life and I believe you to be the honourable person you portray yourself as. It's sad that every positive amazing thing you have done now is brought into question because of this incident, that may or may not have occurred.
Alan Stoltzfus
THANK YOU, NEIL
Ciaran Doran
Men should be protected from women that make them feel uncomfortable
Dan Clark
You are one of most sincere humans on this earth. I feel it in my heart & hear it in your voice every time I listen to you. You have explained more about my existence than any book I've read or any sound I've heard.
I have the Blue ray version of the first Cosmos series that I watched today. I too lived in fear of the day when someone in my past could accuse me of something I had no intention of doing. Your detailed accounts are sincere and not the words of a person who is flawed. One day I hope to meet you before I leave this world. Dan Clark
Siri Steiner
I have always admired you. This might be a good opportunity to examine how actions that feel minor when you are the person in power can actually have a major impact on a person who is not high up in the hierarchy. Particularly if you are part of a group on the outs (like women in science). I think it’s totallly fine to defend yourself but perhaps a little self reflection here would go a long way and would have a big impact on the scientific community. That said, I am grateful for your passion, ability to communicate that passion, and all that you do to advance public understanding of science.
Jetta K. Lewis
I hope they hold these women accountable. That’s equality!
Joseph Conarkov
is this what sexual assault is now? really people? I'm gobsmacked. some folks just need to live in a protective bubble i guess.
Siri Steiner
I guess the best comparison would be if Carl Sagan, when you were young and he was your mentor, said he’d like to hug you but he’s afraid he’d want more. And then had you over for what felt to you like an intimate wine and cheese date that made you felt a bit uncomfortable. Would that throw a little cold water on your vision of yourself as a future scientist? Think how Sagan helped form who you are today—and the confidence it gave you. Would you have felt a bit of an outsider if you thought he viewed you in a sexual way?
Rajat Sharma
good
Jacob Oliver
I just want to say I am a supporter of women and am on the side of women in these situations in general. It is often said that one or the other is lying. If Neil denies it it means the woman is lying. Do people honestly believe someone couldn’t be mistaken? Isn’t it possible she truly believed something happened, and the more she thought about it and heard other people’s stories that she may have believed it to be true when it was not? Maybe she had more to drink than she knew and blacked out. I started blacking out from drinking in my late 20s to early 30s... and I actually did think someone drugged me one night. Later I realized no I just sometimes handle alcohol less than other times. I’ve also been accused of similar behavior as the other 2 women accused Neil of. A woman reported me to HR for things that were absolutely ridiculous and not sexual, or even inappropriate in correct context, yet she truly believed that’s how they were intended. I didn’t blame her for being incorrect but I left her alone from that point on. We all know how creepy men can be on tinder and other dating apps, and I’ve spoken with women and made irreverent, satirical jokes (not sexual) and they took them seriously and attacked me for what they believed was inappropriate behavior. Once again that time or two that happened was absolutely not correct but they believed that and were honestly mistaken after having dealt with how many men that act insane on there. I don’t blame the people that may be mistaken but we should acknowledge that not everyone is always correct when they claim something and it’s not always because they’re lying.
Martin McConnell
Welcome back!
Heather Chandler Weissman
So happy to hear that Neil’s been cleared and the investigation is complete. Looking forward to Cosmos season 2🙂
Ted Hammond
So happy for the news, you have educated me so much.
Enda Zena
Welcome back.
Izzy Bolden
Mary Jane Tala solid, credible evidence is the leading factor in every case, not emotional, opinionated hearsay.
Izzy Bolden
Diana Ireland there’s a similar case against a voice actor named Vic Mignogna. I don’t know if any of you are anime fans, but he was accused via Twitter (of all places), and then his co-workers at Funimation turned on him and started disclosing these fictional testimonies of him being aggressive, inappropriate, and all sorts of stuff (practically painting him as a monster). He tried to stay optimistic but I could definitely see the hurt in his eyes. He has since lawyered up and kept his words at a bare minimum. However, his alleged accusers are going on a Twitter tirade!!! It’s ridiculous!! 😤
Izzy Bolden
Scott Berg obviously these accusers need to open up a dictionary. I’ve actually experienced emotional / verbal abuse for years. It has had a very negative impact on me psychologically and partially / possibly physically. Luckily enough, I was able to find some physical evidence (letters, audio, video), but because of the level of crime, and the power of authority my abuser(s) has, it would be hard to report it or even bring it to court. So the best option for me is to remove myself from the toxic environment.
Chad Lee Walker
That dog looks so happy
Keleco Mochwanaesi
I have visited the blog of one of NDT's accuser just to see what she has to say for herself on this matter,and to put it mildly she's nuts!And obviously she studied physics and it didn't work well for her or she dropped out because she doesn't know that well. And she's trying to climb on the 'MeToo' wagon of instant fame by retrospectively reinterpreting what happened 30yrs ago in order to gain sympathy and fame,pathetic!! Although there may be substance in the accusations women make about prominent men(notice only prominent ones are accused)many decades after the supposed event took place,these women have very little to offer for evidence. We as the public are called to boycot music,films and TV shows just because some woman decides to mention that so-and-so raped her 40yrs ago?and no evidence is brought to bear?Even if NDT really raped her,does it make him less of a scientist?he may be a crappy role-model for sure,but his science is good
Kelly Gautreaux Lindberg
Vanessa Ren Nailed it. I have severe ADHD after decades of concussions and sub-concussive impacts to my prefrontal cortex, and I am always perceived as being flirtatious & sometimes people even assume I’m drunk because of my complete lack of inhibitions. I am a female in my 20s and this is SOLELY the reason why I am not perceived as extremely creepy during 99% of my social interactions.

For example, today I walked up to a 4-year-old boy asking him if he wanted to pet my dog, even though he showed no interest whatsoever and actually appeared terrified and unwilling the closer I got to him. His nonverbal communication screamed “I am uncomfortable, I do not give you consent to approach with doggy, please go away, I’m terrified of dogs”.

I was the sole initiator of the interaction. People without ADHD wouldn’t go out of their way to shout to a kid who seemed completely disinterested and ask him if he wanted to pet their dog. Furthermore, even if they did, they would appropriately respond to his social cues and would DEFINITELY NOT proceed to approach him anyway.

I thought to myself how creepy my behavior would’ve been perceived had I been anyone else other than “the southern outgoing blonde girl-next-door in her 20s who you’d immediately trust as a baysitter”. Imagine if I was a middle aged man with severe adhd behaving like this—would I be perceived as having too keen of an interest in young boys and labeled a pedophile? Most likely. Especially given the fact that I do it every time I see a child. (Haha).

My adhd and complete lack of awareness regarding social cues and appropriate boundaries is so severe that I legitimately cannot experience the feeling of embarrassment anymore. I have absolutely no buffer, and probably never will. Would love to be able to talk to you more about ADHD !
Elizabeth Carroll
Marge Barge, you dumbass. Our justice system is founded on innocent until proven guilty. If you are ever arrested, trust and believe that you will want it in place. Like you are the one who doesn’t belong in 2019. Bye.
William Alexander
#TheCriticalSkeptic I understand that my mentioning how she looks like a thrift store bag full of Broken Dreams could make you think I was being mean but I really think her looks have everything to do with the case. It wasn't a baseless attack. It really does seem like the accuser is most often a very homely looking person who gets rejected on a daily basis. they pick their famous victim and after being rejected they then strike with allegations right before the famous person's big event. Almost in a vindictive manner...
And For some reason you never see the attractive well-adjusted and doing well on their own making these false claims. It's always the ones that look like they beat puppies for a living that have issues from 30 years ago that nobody saw or heard of until the bills were due. Im not being mean i really do think there is a connection.
Kate Renkes
💜💜
Gordon Robertson
Seems very weird that a woman who you worked with daily and drove to work with saw you as a friend every day but then after a "cheese and wine" dinner with you claims you made her uncomfortable. According to you Neil you were a perfect gentleman.
Mmmmmmm I'm not buying it neil, I'm thinking something happened for her to be put off and offended by you mate..
Your epic over the top post smells like shit bud, sorry.
Solomon Negash
Pluto Strikes Back :)
RoseAnn Warren
That is terrible. I'm sorry that happened. This is getting out of control and I feel more and more that men should be brave and take action. These false accusations should stop. The media is to blame. They report before getting facts. God Bless you.
RoseAnn Warren
Before we know it men are going to have women sign contracts that they were a gentleman on the whole courting woman process.
Tony Klein
I am so sick and fucking tired of these professionally offended people I use that word 'people' loosely accusing people of nonsense that never happened because they feel assaulted by a look, or a comment, or some other action that does not even remotely qualify as what they are accusing this man of doing. It isn't the first time something like this has happened, I am sure it won't be the last. Simple solution, if you feel that uncomfortable with someone touching your arm and looking at your tattoo, just stay home inside your bedroom, in whatever corner you find your safe space with the lights on and never go outside in the world again since you have trouble adjusting to social situations with other rational people. I feel sorry for Neil for having to be subjected to this fucking nonsense.... :/
Diego Martínez
@[1654101750:2048:Merit Martínez] así lo maneja una persona racional.
Merit Martínez
@[100000236871954:2048:Diego Martínez] igual creo que es muy black mirror 🤷🏽‍♀️😅, la verdad es que no conocía al otro sujeto pero aparentemente fue demasiado.
Águeda PM
@[100000376793771:2048:Erika Arias] :)
Erika Arias
@[720272622:2048:Águeda] muy peligroso e injusto
Águeda PM
@[100000376793771:2048:Erika Arias] Sí, es lo malo que estos movimientos se prestan para otras cosas... ojalá se pueda afinar el sistema de alguna manera para tratar de evitar la difamación y afectar la reputación de personas que no han hecho nada malo.
Erika Arias
@[720272622:2048:Águeda] y a las verdaderas víctimas se les haga justicia
Águeda PM
@[100000376793771:2048:Erika Arias] Exactamente, Eri.
Glen Pittman
So happy to hear that Star Talk and Cosmos will be back with the most excellent Neil deGrasse Tyson!
Sandra Jacobs
This sick, sex-obsessed society has made a real mockery out of genuine displays of camaraderie and affection.
KEEP IT UP Town Criers!...One day you'll have all the "SPACE" you desire. Then, when no one dares enter your politically correct and sterile orbit, to bless you with a genuine smile, gentle touch or warm hug...maybe then you'll understand.
Jerry Walker
Chas Wilson
RE: "Stevan Radovic Face it, you love rape if the rapist is a liberal."
Chas, you are out of line. Noone has been hoodwinked by your jaded pessimistic view of humanity and your rejection of one of the most sacred principles in the American justice system, innocent until proven guilty. Noone is falling for your tactic of bringing false charges (Rape vs Assault.) Noone is falling for your slander or your attempts to divide the American people with your inflammatory comment. You need to do some serious soul searching. I wish you all the best in this endeavor.
Jerry

P.S. Если вы русский, мне очень очень грустно для вас.
Eric Romano Zolaski
I was accused by 70+ girlfriends that I was too nice. Dang We guys can never do anything right for women. I was not handsome, but I was no Rodney Dangerfield either! I never had any form of disease or even a common cold. I just like women as friends and if things go well, things would blossom into more. I never had too many male friends and no, I am not gay as all will attest. With my obvious charms, I ended up marring a girl who turned out to become the worst monster imaginable of my life. lol. Neal is indeed the kindest and best teacher ever! Thanks Neal!!! :)
Ta Mil
As a fond fan of your books, speeches and interviews. The above letter makes a huge difference. Being a fan is an involving gesture, and any accusations to the people we are fans of, has to be viewed with an intelligent mind, and not viewed it with an emotional mind. I appreciate the letter above and continue to respect and follow your work. 🐯✊🏾. ps: your videos on startalk are mind-blowing. 🌍
Abhinash Bharat
Actually we don't that's why we fear.
We are confused because this line between the two varies from woman to woman.
Tabitha Williams
@[100002601303489:2048:Charmella Williams]
Astrid Nel
I'm glad I read this. I believe you.
Astrid Nel
Snowflakes and attention-seeking women are such troublemakers
Astrid Nel
RAPE!!! RAPE!!! {sarcasm} LOL!
Astrid Nel
OMG he's touching your ribcage! HARASSMENT!!!!!!
Catarina Nunes
Chas... That's actually not what I said.
What I meant was, nowadays there's a lot of people accusing others of rape without actually being true.
And in the grounds of law, everyone is innocent until proven wrong. Witch hunts are not how justice should work. If there's an accusation to be made, it is not to be made on the media. That's what police departments and courts are for. Coming to the media with accusations is as far as law goes a character murder attempt against the accused or an attempt to get attention and some media time by the accuser.
If there's any wrongdoing is the court the place to go to, not TV or any other media.
Lisa Carrera
I just learned Neil de Grasse is a sexually abusing schmuck. I even recently bought one of his books and admired him for his love of fountain pens. However, this planet has no room for schmucks like him. He doesn't deserve to get air time or to be heard.
Suchindram Kukrety
Well said
Jeesus Iivari Mällinen
deranged comments in deranged times, no wonder
Jeesus Iivari Mällinen
you are deranged
Jeesus Iivari Mällinen
the only appropriate thing is to stay away as far as possible from miserable, bitter creatures like you
E. A. Hernandez
This, I truly hope, has been fully resolved in the just, fair way that should be the American way. The accusations were made. Tyson has replied. It must move in the appropriate direction from here--not trial by media.
E. A. Hernandez
Oh, ok, so back to the ever-suspicious double standard:

https://slate.com/technology/2019/03/neil-degrasse-tyson-exonerated-by-an-unscientific-process.html
Kp Jones
Marge Barge ARE YOU FUC'ING STUPID OR JUST DUMB.MY GOD HOW CRAZY
Timothy Hoffman
Congrats you survived a #metoo attack
Johnny Rasputin
I can/will not speak to whether the allegations are true or not. Only the persons directly involved know the truth, but this is the best response to allegations i have ever read. No demonizing of the accusers, a self-critical evaluation of the situations, and admitting that the way you see things may not be how the other person sees it. He should be more careful about being so intimate in his casual relations. If you never allow yourself to get into a situation where there can be any question as to your conduct, these accusations cant happen.
Robert Stephens
I feel Dr.TYSON IS a man of great integrity and he would always be a gentleman, no matter what the circumstances.
Ina Bendis
The scientist Neil De Grasse Tyson
put his arm round the neck of a bison,
who got it on tape,
then cried publicly, "Rape!"
(Tyson's bison is sure not a nice 'un) ...
Darrius Carrius
Since when do we expect scientists to NOT be awkward?
Theres nothing here that can't be explained with "that was awkward" or "clearly a misunderstanding".
Nothing criminal. The woman who said she was raped obviously has mental issues and is not a reliable narrarator based on what we know of her.
Norbert Caillet
I didn't know there was any kind of investigation on you. Hope everything got cleared up because I cannot think about anyone more trustworthy in this world than you. Best regards from France.
Goldy Magnolia
Keep your hands to yourself, women and men! Many people get so comfortable they seem to forget how to be respectful.
David Beltran
Yeah it would have been another story if Neil pulled the ol'Spacey apology "From this day forth I choose to live as a Straight Man of the universe."
Kat Carola Rader
I never doubted you..... the only bumper sticker I have on my Mercedes is a silhouette of you
Abdel Malik Najhi
No, never apologize if you know you did nothing wrong
Mark Golodetz
Sad we reached this point, but Neil’s response is totally, utterly credible.
Trevor Waterman
It is getting to the point that any prominent male will be accused no matter what he actually does, and the public will rush to judge without knowing the facts or context. A mere accusation be it genuine or not can take a guy down. Yet you will also get scolded should you exclude women from your orbit to play it safe. You can't win.
Judith Maryse
This comes off as creepy and insincere to me. I was a huge fan of NDT until I read his own words. I'm sure I'll get torn apart in comments, I won't be responding to trolls.

It's great to view people as innocent until proven guilty, but in the cases of sexual harassment the corollary to that means you must assume the accuser is lying. Yet over and over, the overwhelming evidence shows that women rarely if ever make these things up. Just because a guy doesn't harrass every woman he meets doesn't mean he's never harrassed.

The majority of the supporters' comments I saw admit they didn't bother to read the allegations made by the women (there are three that I know of). They simply took NDT at his word. Isn't that just as biased as what I will be accused of, that is, assuming guilt?
(Since comments will show up in different order, don't waste energy explaining how some comments are different)
This is purely he-said, she-said.
If you think these women are "Republican shills", please provide some evidence.
If you think #MeToo has "gone too far", name one victim of Bill Cosby, without an internet search. Just one. Because you must still think women are gaining fame, or money, or attention, right?

This looks a lot like a man in a position of power abusing his power. Again.

Link to at least part of their side:

https://www.patheos.com/blogs/nosacredcows/2018/11/two-more-women-accuse-neil-degrasse-tyson-of-sexual-misconduct/
Darla Alexander
I am deeply sorry, @[1467640955:2048:Lynn Wilson Bensinger]. I know how this goes, so often and often tragically.
Melissa Baker
I love you neil
Jennifer Day Duke
I think to prevent these types of situations in the future, companies should do more to proactively help reporting. A service like https://talktospot.com/ is a great thing for businesses to implement.
Ryan N Anna Lightle
You are a man of science, in a world of religion that does not want to let go of their beliefs for "personal control". It is obvious, you will be persecuted any way deemed fit. Those of us that understand and know science, and the true nature of things, shall follow it, and persevere through ignorance and religion (one-in-the-same). I urge you to continue your observations, vocalizing your findings and beliefs; do not let blind and ignorant faith deter you. The entirety of logical and deductive mindset shall be with you; supporting the fore-front with you, and on your behalf. Continue the work, as shall we, of those whom have preceded before .
Ryan N Anna Lightle
...and a side-note, I would not be surprised if you pissed someone off along the way enough for them to scheme against you in such a manner... lol this is a dirty world.
Holly B Hansen
I'm always skeptical of alleged victims who waited years to do/say/allege ANY thing. I don't get it because as embarrassing, uncomfortable and traumatizing it was, I reported my rape, I had to tell: my friends (to take me home), my parents (called the cops), police dept 1: wrong place to report it, police dept 2: it happened on their turf, 5 MALE OFFICERS standing over-me for over an hour. Intimidating doesn't even come close! I was SIXTEEN and bullied by a police department. I would never report it again, NOT to the cops. I did what I knew was right and after all that, in the end = he got away with it. No evidence. The ER Dr said "too bad you didn't wait a few more seconds, eh?" 😒 do what's right & speak-up immediately, or the next day if you were too stunned, but waiting years isn't right. I think they're using half-truths to cash-in because he's famous.
Mark Cordell
Emily Wells Agreed.
Leena Lapena
While I truly think that women and children who have been violated ought to be believed, and as a lawyer gladly prosecuted a military member whose child victim was not believed until I found others, it is getting absurd when a person cannot hold a hand or even try to kiss someone in a situation where the other may reciprocate. Even if they don't. As long as power isn't used (be it physical or positional) to coerce compliance. For God's sake, is there no common sense?
Sheila Marie
Seems pretty full of himself.
Leena Lapena
I have to say, I am really happy to see that multiple men posting are very open minded and saying they are really giving the women the benefit of the doubt.
Israel Ortiz
The world has become so conceited that soon we won’t be able to speak or comment about anything anymore! We are humans!! How will we ever able to develop relationships if everything we say is offensive to someone! Come on people, self centerism is rapidly becoming the norm! We should all take a good look at ourselves!
Suzie McKay
Ridiculous! Why make something evil out of an innocent, almost playful act? It’s not like he yanked her skirt over her head. Give it a rest. This woman is no stranger to letting people see the more private areas of her body. Those tats didn’t just fly onto her skin.
Salih Keceli
This power woman have, to just go and destroy ones hard earned reputation is just insane. How can it be that any woman whom you've ever met, can just start spouting lies, to which you as a man have to say, "that never happened" and saying that "Nothing happened" will then be viewed in the public eyes as the man is guilty and tries to hide it. I honestly believe the #meetoo movement gave woman more of a tool for revenge and attention, than for redemption
Jean Lewandowski
I hadn't seen this letter until after your most recent public appearances on CBS, and I'm glad you addressed the allegations seriously and in detail. I can see that this episode has wounded you, and as a woman, mother, and grandmother, I'm sorry for that. I hope it won't doesn't affect your commitment to changing cultures and structures so women feel free to "keep looking up." I've very much appreciated that you have been conscientious about including women on Star Talk as scientists and other experts, which encourages girls, including our granddaughter, to see themselves as scientists. As for our brilliant, enthusiastic, curious grandson, I've long referred to him as the little white @[7720276612:274:Neil deGrasse Tyson] and will proudly continue to do so.
Rafi Marengo
You are awesome!
Judy Bosworth
Thank you for your report here - which is well written, from the heart, exposing your inner self. I agree with so many here that while the MeToo movement is necessary and doing good work, we must try to be more rational about how we as women assess situations. I commend you NDT!
Calin A. Culianu
What the fuck is going on with our society. You behaved rationally and normally. Also there ARE sexual undertones to everything but that's FUCKING NORMAL. You did NOT act creepy. These allegations are crazy.
Calin A. Culianu
Also.. it sounds to me like these women are projecting stuff onto you. Not cool of them.
Sam Froggman
I think that we lived trough the worst 2 decades, that went from 0% to 100% intolerance for sarcastic humor and social connotations.
I do think it is the effect of the " Millennial's " coming of age of that generation that grew up in a cocoon where : everyone is a winner / you can be anything you want / or do anything you want in life / you are a whole person with rights and entitlements.
The mentality that if your feelings are hurt , it is not right and you should sue for the suffering it caused you.

With the Me Too movement we saw some brave women (and men) come forward and share their experiences and found it to be cathartic for a society to be able to change their views on what is acceptable and what isn't ,as it evolves with the members that constitutes it .

Let us not forget that the education received and the surroundings in witch you developed in becoming the person you are is as important as the choices you make navigating trough it.

In the 60's / 70's : It was the sexual revolution where everyone learn to be open on sexual advances and expressing their desires openly.
All in the name of refusing the rules imposed by " The Man"

In the 70's / 80's : it was the over the top of the previous decades where sex was just as common as drugs , it was one of the ways that people rebelled against the establishment.
Materialism and wealth became the way society defined it self , the mighty Dollar became the new Deity of a generation , that was more concerned about how others perceived them, then how happy they were.

In the 80's / 90's :That was also the decisive generation of the divorce wave , the generation that decided that enough is enough and that women should stand for their rights and what they worth, it was the birth of the "all or nothing" Feminism wave that shaped today's generation of inspiring Role-models and successful women .

In the 90's to 2000's era : A big shift on what a Whole generation is all about they are called "Millennial's".
They are what we made them ....it is not their fault that their: Values / Dreams / and / Aspirations are so opposite of what the majority of the older generation , it was us that realized that greed was not a way to make one's life matter , that putting a brave face is not better then sharing one's feelings , and that nobody should be treated differently because of their religion / race / or / gender.

AND HERE WE ARE

In 2000 to 2010 : it was the coming of age of that over nurtured generation , the one that got spoiled by divorced parents that still competed on a materialistic level to be the coolest / best / favorite parent .
And we wonder why that generation feels like everything is due to them , that what they want is what they should get....."Now"...and feel discriminated against when they are told to work for it or that it is not the way things work.

All I am trying to point out here is that , when different generations interact , they don't have the same baseline of values and life experiences to evaluate the other's intentions , or even what they mean by what they say.

All I am saying is:
Did Dr.Tyson made some women in is past feel uncomfortable by his actions words or approaches.
Maybe
Did he intended to do so .
I don't think so
I believe him to be truly sorry for what anybody would have perceived as unwanted behavior.

Did some of the women out there, get hurt by: a word / a touch / a look , and from one's point of view in certain circumstances I would say....... Yes

Did all of those have to be brought up for society to judge : maybe not

Why.....?

Because even if you felt hurt by what someone said or did that differs from your own value scale , and social experience you consider acceptable ,or even because of your belief system , it is only as important to you as it is your generation.

The one thing that matter I thing is , the intent in witch (what ever happened) did.....and the perspective of the other

Here is an example:
You are to meet someone for a breakfast business meeting , you order bacon and eggs and an orange juice......
Are you a bigot......????? No

But if you know that the person you are meeting is Muslim and Vegan ..." You might appear so "

What if the other person does not know that you are having bacon and eggs and orange juice every day of your life and that since you were a kid.
And it is just a habit of no consequences to you just as much as a sunrise or sunset
( it just happen's without thinking it)

Are you a bigot....??? yes to the other person's point of view if they know they have mentioned the fact they are Vegan and Muslim .

No if they did not specify that the would rather make sure it was a Vegan breakfast for religious reasons.

And I could go on forever on all the possibilities that would or would not offend either parties.

It all comes down to this: Everyone has reasons to be hurt by anyone without understanding that we are all different products of our (Education , Religion , environment , race , or , Nationality )

Every Generation is not going to see things the way the other generations that preceded them see's it and there will be confrontations when this happens .

Being in a generation that grew up with social medias and technologies that rank you on the numbers of followers , or even make a career of being a " Social influencer " all that makes public figures Targets to denunciations on what they do or say.

We even see people refusing to accept History as a fact that happened that should be remembered for what should not be reproduced in the future and would rather remove a statue ,a monument , a tv show , or a flag out of site and out of mind just because some group of people find's it offensive , without realizing that there was no intent of Glorifying these said thing but as a reminder of what was before as a testament of where our society has evolved and moved forward.

All I am saying is ....live and let live and before posing a judgement on one's reported actions or words let's not deny the fact that everyone could claim outrage at someone else's actions or words and even I could be the accused of such actions or words that hurt someone else feeling .
If too me I did not intentionally and deliberately pose those gestures , action or said these words on the purpose of hurting someone's feeling ,then all I could say like Dr. Tyson is........

I am truly sorry if someone felt hurt by somethings I might have said,done, or judged as a product of my generation,race,religion,culture,and social circompstances
Marie Norcia
Jake Ming I get what you’re saying. I really do. But he IS in a boss role whether he’s comfortable there or not. I would also comment that part of the problem is the assumption that the woman has misinterpreted. But that’s the life of women and always has been.
Lance Longreen
This trend is VERY disturbing and this trial by media especially as done in the US is a symptom of other highly disturbing trends in the US
Phil Mayfield
Grant Durtschi That was too funny you misogynist pig! lol
Phil Mayfield
1. The only way to make somebody feel something is by touching them, either directly or indirectly. Otherwise it is just our own emotional feelings. Taking responsibility for our own emotions is part of "Adulting".
2. Falsely accusing someone of a crime IS a crime. Where is the equality?
3. When a victim waits until her assailant becomes rich and famous does she bear any responsibility for all the other victims during that time by enabling her assailant?
Renee Benson
Oh Neil. I am sorry this happened to you. Stay strong and know that you've taken the high road and are cleared of this in my head. Good luck with season 2 of Cosmos!
Anthony Bryan Chute
You are so lucky to have met him!
Amit Tråshgrëmlin Nothing-Jacobs
Here's what we're not talking about: while false rape accusations are largely a myth made up to gaslight women, there's a long, gross history in this country of Black men being falsely accused of raping white women. Now, I do not know the respective ethnicities of these women, nor do I defend rapists. I also do not buy into the bullshit of telling women that their discomfort is unreasonable or invalid just because what they experienced wasn't violent, or wasn't purposeful, or didn't involve penetration, or wasn't illegal, or any number of dismissive things we tell each other. But we absolutely have to be able to see the difference between the accounts we hear of sexual misconduct. It baffles me why it seems to be so difficult for us to acknowledge nuance in this area. Rape is rape is rape is rape, and it doesn't really matter whether you were trying to hurt someone or not, what matters is that they were hurt-- but grabbing someone's boob is different from looking up their sleeve for a tattoo of Pluto. But the other thing is, what the fuck? Why are we treating this like the women who came forward are overreacting? Why do they have to be either assault victims or liars? Why are we pretending there's no other way to see this? Neil even spelled it out. When you make someone uncomfortable, you apologize, even if you didn't mean to. And just because something isn't sexual assault doesn't mean you shouldn't be able to bring it up without getting shouted down. But like I said at the beginning, we can't just look at this through the same old lens of "old white man in a position of power over female accusers". Sure, he's a man, and yes, he's in a position of power, and yes, he's one of the most prestigious names in modern science-- but he's also a Black man working in a white male dominated field. That has to be part of how we frame these accusations, or else we reject one of the most basic premises of the #metoo movement: that systemic privilege and social programming affect both our behavior and our perception of others' behavior, and part of that is about women not being taken seriously, and part of that is about Black people being perceived as more dangerous, and we can't acknowledge that one is true and refuse to believe the other exists. Nuance, people. We're not this stupid. If you don't believe him, fine, but don't do it because you think wanting more information means you don't believe victims or you don't take women seriously. It's good to want adequate information before deciding what you believe. It's all we have to separate us from the MAGA babies who think legislation should be based on feelings over data. Figure yourselves out.
Chelsea Solis
Cynthia Purcell Garrett Most people are ignoring the racism aspect, that non Black women (especially white women) will claim sexual assault as a form of racism. There are literally videos of white women SCREAMING rape at the top of their lungs because a Black man was within 30 feet of them
Michelle LaCoille Harris
Not necessarily. That is a sweeping statement. Sometimes when people are accused of something they are genuinely surprised and hurt. This is often a regular occurrence if they are neurodiverse.
Janice Speed
Rejection......is a bitch! Ppl loose their minds because they NEED special attention and their behavior warrants attention also!
Jen Dawn
That's crazy her story made it seem like you reached up her dress.
Jonas Midtbø
I hope you are honest, both for your self, and others :-)
Paige Haggard
Classic textbook sexual predator denial.

Totally genius to start with the more benign accusation and claim you were just looking for her tattoo yet you wisely never answer some very important questions: Why were you touching her? Did she give you permission to touch her? Why should a woman have to tell you to NOT touch her for you to NOT touch her? You can see tattoos without touching anyone and if you can't see the whole tattoo, you ask the person to show you. And no, she not going to say anything to you because you will deny it; that's what predators do -- they find plausible deniability.

Next you move to the allegation with the most heft...your assistant: "clumsily declared, 'If I hug you I might just want more.'” You cleverly use the word clumsily to linguistically illustrate how you are but a mere buffoon trapped by the beauty of this young lady— NEVER MIND THAT STATEMENT IS UTTERLY INAPPROPRIATE FOR A BOSS OF ANY SEX TO SAY TO HIS/HER ASSISTANT EVER. Hence she had every right to quit working with you the very next day. Yet you cast this action as if she was unforgiving of your simple appreciation, further indicating that you aren't actually remorseful because remorse doesn't blame the victim for not forgiving creepy behavior.

The true coup d'etat is to put the more brutal of the accusations, the oldest and the first, last. Rhetorically that is a wonderful build-up. Fascinating that you use the fact that woman chose something outside of science as a means to discredit her claim (because that is absolutely the oppose of what an innocent person would do). Admitting that you had sex with her but ONLY at her apt, that is truly a stroke of brilliance because you are giving specific details that are in direct contradiction to hers; you even get the bonus points of her now becoming a woman scorned so her testimony cannot be believed. Couple that with the fact that she has now embraced a New Age lifestyle so she must not be a credible witness, even though she exhibits all the signs of someone who has been raped by someone close to her. Indeed the very fact she can't remember much of that night and the following day is standard for victims of this crime. But you are a scientist and you know these facts so it must be included in your story so that you may cast dispersion upon that as well because most people don't know that memory loss is tied to trauma. But you are famous and a man and in field with few minorities, much like Cosby, so people aren't going to analyze your words with the same scrutiny they will the women's stories.

I read about the original allegation in 2014, while I knew her pain was real, part of me wanted to believe that it was a misunderstanding. But having read your account of matters versus the four accusations (yes you only covered three but I have read four), two things are clear. First, it is clear you do not think you have done any wrong; you feel that you are victim and that your actions have merely been misinterpreted. But what is even more clear is that you have disparaged each woman in your account, even as you feign compliments. If you were innocent, you wouldn't need all these clever appeals to emotion and value; if you were innocent, you would just stick to the facts. If you were innocent of viewing women as possessions, you would NOT touch a woman without her permission and blame her for not correcting you. If you viewed your assistant as human worthy of dignity, you NOT say inappropriate things to your assistant, you definitely wouldn't tell her she would never make it as a producer because she is too distracting, and you most definitely would not blame her for leaving your employment.. If you were not an abuser, you would not need to remind us that you are a scientist to disprove a women's rape accusation, esp when you bring up aspects that are classic PTSD from sexual trauma as evidence that she is lying.

I'm sure you see yourself as "loving husband and as a public servant – a scientist and educator" and I'm sure you are those things but it is clear that you are not supporter women as equals because if you were, you would have handled that allegation directly in 2010 when she accused you publicly at a NOVA event in California, rather than waiting until you had three accusations against you and your job was on the line.

Why am I bringing this up today? It's 2020 and we need to start seeing sexual assault and predators with clear vision.
Janice Harnagel
In need of advice for a friend currently locked up and wrongfully accused.who even has proof..please anyone with advice
Troels Vejen Christensen
Sad you had to go through this.

I support you! And I use your videos in my astronomy class. Thank you for the inspiration❤️
Bill Menke Thompson
everyone is desperate for attention.
Jay Ashworth
I just managed to come across this note for some reason, but I read his explanation of this event and having seen these photographs I signed them consonant with the description he gave, and not justification for the events which ensued.
Gabriel Cavalcante
What terrifies me the most is that this American mindset is starting to catch up here where I live on the other side of the continent, lol You guys need to put your entire country in some collective therapy or something, holy shit. I'm seriously scared about this nonsense getting imported over here.
Daniel Abadi
@[100001450344406:2048:Abhinash Bharat] Maybe saked sweetie before you grope and touch someone???? Ever heard of this thing called 'Consent'?
Elizabeth Ballard
I have a MeToo Headache, and that statement comes from a woman who, having been in the work force since the 1970s, has been the victim of more legitimate "me too" moments than I can count.

Over 25 years ago, before I had sons, I noted that any disgruntled woman could accuse any man of sexual misconduct and, even if he were innocent, had no real way of defending himself against such nefarious charges. Indeed, even his closest friends would be left with a lingering doubt "why would she say that if nothing at all happened?"

While sexual inequality, especially in the work force exists and needs to change, the #metoo movement should not an easy vehicle for any woman who feels slighted to make career- and life-ruining accusations at will. It should be a crime worthy of prosecution.
Renata Tomaszek
@[537960062:2048:Nancy Elizabeth LaFlair] Police report on what? Touching woman's arm on public event?
Jay ToTha Fray
Wow. If only NDT could use a time machine to return to 2009 and start the SJW 'wokeness'. That would shut Emily up.
Pavel Macek
@[100000192445691:2048:Emily Ruth] You are making me uncomfortable even two years later. I WANT APOLOGY NOW! Also read your comments again and replace "men" with "afro-american" and you are first class racist. So maybe just maybe you are the one who is sexist and treat the opposite sex badly? Just a thought.
Santa De Ville
you... dawg! 🙂

a bad joke, sorry.
a view from across the ocean:
Neil is a smart guy.
way smarter than the most of his compatriots. he should have KNOWN better: you DO NOT call a female colleague to HIS place at NIFGHT.
don't want to sound like a plain misogynic (being a father of two girls I’m just… vaccinated against it, I guess), but you do not do that in a country where MeToo has been on the run for months, and he must have felt for a sec back then that warm summer night it hadn't been a good idea. Plain and simple.

This tatoo lady I’d like to dismiss as well we the “Lady With The Forks”. Not because of what Neil is saying, but I’ve read more than a few articles about these two cases and really there are less atoms per m3 in the interstellar space than solid arguments for any serious accusations…

Now, the assistant…There were no proofs, correct. Unfortunately, (still) there is no experimental way to find a proof what has really happened that night. Way easier would be to find out what has really happened before the Big Bang.
Emotionally I want to believe Neil. intellectually I just cannot. But I would need to find a way to suppress this intimate "dualism" of mine, as Neil still is, after C. Sagan, my personal best promotor of science, common sense, thinking-out-of-box mindset and human multi-level freedom. Just cannot.

Such a shame.
Santa De Ville
@[575041329:2048:Nauman Ʀajpoot]
this is a stupid thing to say.
Nauman Ʀajpoot
@[100065013556225:2048:Santa De Ville] it was a joke that a lady with such face is accusing the genius for misconduct while trying to be flirty with him. I’m sure alot of fame diggers want to be around him. Alot of women around the world played that card. Most of them were genuine but some of them just used it to get attention by linking themselves with famous people like neil degrasse tyson. It’s an old story but such women have been exposed now. My comment was sarcastic
Santa De Ville
Nauman Ʀajpoot mate, you got something terribly wrong here:
Stephanie hasn't accused NDGT for anything, exactly the opposite. what's more she has been a victim herself.
Pls, go back and read Stephanie's post once again.
Tiannah York-Van Elslande
I went over to the blog of the 1980's accuser. While I cannot say what did or did not happen, I must say she does not seem well at all meaning she does not appear to be rooted in reality. You should go and form your own opinion before believing her.
Leo Quintanar
@[1078720850:2048:Tiannah York-Van Elslande] I try to be just a good human but as a man I am deathly afraid of false accusations. I know 99% of the time they not false, however, with the power a accusation has can ruin a person life and usually the fake accusations are not punished in social circles.
Keshia Denny
Just a question re the third allegation. Why the frigg did you keep a record of her whereabouts???

I'm very concerned. 🤔