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Journals Operating Predatory Practices Are Systematically Eroding the Science Ethos: A Gate and Code Strategy to
Kenneth Timmis1, Paul Williams2, Zeynep Ceren Karahan3
1Institute of Microbiology, Technical University Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany.
Microbial Biotechnology
|June 19, 2025
Summary
Predatory publishing degrades research quality and public trust. Solutions include journal accreditation and cultural shifts in science management to promote rigorous, ethical practices and better support scientists.
Area of Science:
- Scientific research
- Research integrity
- Publication ethics
Background:
- Scientific research demands rigorous standards for validity and truth.
- Rigour is cultivated through training, mentoring, and independent validation like peer review.
- The proliferation of predatory journals undermines these standards.
Discussion:
- Predatory publishing, driven by article processing charges (APCs), degrades research quality and erodes the science ethos.
- This trend threatens public trust in science and scientists.
- Urgent action is needed to oppose predatory dissemination practices.
Key Insights:
- Proposes a two-pronged approach: preventing "pull" (predatory demand) and addressing "push" (research ecosystem pressures).
- Advocates for journal accreditation based on a code of conduct, linked to APC eligibility and indexing.
- Calls for cultural change in science management, emphasizing merit, best practices, and support for early-career researchers.
Outlook:
- A multi-stakeholder alliance is proposed to develop and implement ecosystem reforms.
- Encourages a "publish less, publish better" principle to enhance science quality and societal impact.
- Aims to restore research rigour, uphold the science ethos, and prevent a decline in scientific credibility.
Keywords:
journal accreditationjournal and editorial code of conductpeer reviewpredatory practices in research publicationpublication inflationscience ethosscience managementspecial issuesMore Related Videos
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