In our founding documents, we pledge ourselves to the same inalienable rights, and to the truth that all men and women are created equal.

WHITEHOUSE: President Obama Speaks About the US-France Alliance

France already allows civil unions between same-sex couples, but it was a campaign pledge of President Francois Hollande to extend their rights.

BBC: French gay marriage and adoption bill backed by cabinet

Last year 11, 000 scientists signed a pledge stating that they would publish only in journals that "grant unrestricted free distribution rights" to original research they have published.

FORBES: Double Dutch No Longer

The grantees pledge to make their technologies available at no or little charge to developing nations, though they retain marketing rights in developed markets.

FORBES: Chutzpah Science