Self-retraction as redemption: Forgiveness for repentant authors

While the scientific community has traditionally responded to misconduct in publications through various penalties, the potential for encouraging self-retraction by waiving such punishments has been less explored. This approach could significantly enhance and accelerate the refinement of scientific discourse. Inspired by frequent reports of systematic collusion against the retraction of fraudulent publications, this paper proposes a model for Hierarchical Self-Retraction Forgiveness (HSRF). The model is specifically designed for retractions related to misconduct, aiming to mitigate systemic obstacles to retraction. By alleviating concerns over reputational damage, it seeks to encourage both authors and their affiliated institutions, as well as the higher supporting layers of the system, to engage in self-retraction without fear of social or institutional penalties. Robust safeguards have been integrated to prevent exploitation, and ongoing dialogue and refinement of these measures are encouraged to further enhance the model's effectiveness.