scholarly journals Slowed canonical progress in large fields of science

2021 ◽  
Vol 118 (41) ◽  
pp. e2021636118
Author(s):  
Johan S. G. Chu ◽  
James A. Evans
Keyword(s):  
Scientific Work ◽  
Scientific Output ◽  
Academic Departments ◽  
Theoretical Argument ◽  
Career Trajectories ◽  
Quantitative Metrics ◽  
New Ideas ◽  
Cumulative Process ◽  
Gradual Accumulation ◽  
Policy Measures

In many academic fields, the number of papers published each year has increased significantly over time. Policy measures aim to increase the quantity of scientists, research funding, and scientific output, which is measured by the number of papers produced. These quantitative metrics determine the career trajectories of scholars and evaluations of academic departments, institutions, and nations. Whether and how these increases in the numbers of scientists and papers translate into advances in knowledge is unclear, however. Here, we first lay out a theoretical argument for why too many papers published each year in a field can lead to stagnation rather than advance. The deluge of new papers may deprive reviewers and readers the cognitive slack required to fully recognize and understand novel ideas. Competition among many new ideas may prevent the gradual accumulation of focused attention on a promising new idea. Then, we show data supporting the predictions of this theory. When the number of papers published per year in a scientific field grows large, citations flow disproportionately to already well-cited papers; the list of most-cited papers ossifies; new papers are unlikely to ever become highly cited, and when they do, it is not through a gradual, cumulative process of attention gathering; and newly published papers become unlikely to disrupt existing work. These findings suggest that the progress of large scientific fields may be slowed, trapped in existing canon. Policy measures shifting how scientific work is produced, disseminated, consumed, and rewarded may be called for to push fields into new, more fertile areas of study.

scholarly journals The dominance of big teams in China’s scientific output

2020 ◽  
pp. 1-13
Author(s):  
Linlin Liu ◽  
Jianfei Yu ◽  
Junming Huang ◽  
Feng Xia ◽  
Tao Jia
Keyword(s):  
Natural Science ◽  
Research Output ◽  
Modern Science ◽  
Scientific Work ◽  
The United States ◽  
Scientific Output ◽  
Large Size ◽  
Global Trend ◽  
Innovative Work ◽  
Small Team

Modern science is dominated by scientific productions from teams. A recent finding shows that teams of both large and small sizes are essential in research, prompting us to analyze the extent to which a country’s scientific work is carried out by big or small teams. Here, using over 26 million publications from Web of Science, we find that China’s research output is more dominated by big teams than the rest of the world, which is particularly the case in fields of natural science. Despite the global trend that more papers are written by big teams, China’s drop in small team output is much steeper. As teams in China shift from small to large size, the team diversity that is essential for innovative work does not increase as much as that in other countries. Using the national average as the baseline, we find that the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) supports fewer small teams than the National Science Foundation (NSF) of the United States does, implying that big teams are preferred by grant agencies in China. Our finding provides new insights into the concern of originality and innovation in China, which indicates a need to balance small and big teams.

scholarly journals The scientization of the world polity: International organizations and the production of scientific knowledge, 1950–2015

2017 ◽  
Vol 33 (1) ◽  
pp. 3-26 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mike Zapp
Keyword(s):  
International Organizations ◽  
Social Order ◽  
Sociology Of Science ◽  
Scientific Work ◽  
Research Capacity ◽  
Scientific Output ◽  
Scientific Activity ◽  
Organizational Diversity ◽  
Research Fields ◽  
Nutrition Research

While recent concepts from the sociology of science stress novel sites of knowledge production (e.g. government, industry), they ignore international organizations’ (IOs) growing research capacity. Conversely, prevailing theories of IOs stress their regulative and normative influence in national policymaking, equally neglecting their scientific work. Using bibliometric data for a large sample of 1325 international organizations, this work examines, for the first time, the evolution of scientific output from international intergovernmental research organizations, intergovernmental organizations, and nongovernmental organizations in the period 1950–2015. The analysis finds a striking increase in scientific activity since the late 1980s and particularly since the early 2000s across organizational types, sectors (e.g. law, nutrition), research fields (e.g. life science, social sciences), output formats (e.g. articles, books), and geographic areas. Indeed, some of these organizations are among the most productive science producers worldwide. Additional analyses of IOs’ research collaborations suggest strong cross-organizational diversity reflecting wider trends of scientific internationalization and integration. The article argues that IOs’ scientization requires a thorough revision of theories of institutional change in science and research systems and of theories about the nature and role of IOs. These organizations reflect, and, indeed, spearhead, wider trends of the rationalization of social order and evidence-based global governance.

Address of the President, Sir Howard Florey, at the Anniversary Meeting, 30 November 1962

1963 ◽  
Vol 157 (969) ◽  
pp. 449-460
Keyword(s):  
Scientific Work ◽  
Practical Significance ◽  
Chemical Research ◽  
Thermal Systems ◽  
The Past ◽  
Complex Processes ◽  
New Ideas ◽  
Gas Reactions ◽  
Branched Chain ◽  
Insight Into

The Copley Medal is awarded to Sir Cyril Hinshelwood, O. M., F. R. S. The contributions of Sir Cyril Hinshelwood to chemical research have been recognized repeatedly, and universally. Most of his scientific work has been concerned with the mechanism of a wide variety of chemical reactions, homogeneous and heterogeneous, and in all states of aggregation. These have included processes of fundamental importance in both chemistry and biology. His work has been characterized by a flair for the elucidation of complex processes by the ingenious planning of relatively simple experiments, together with a remarkable insight into the implication of the results. He has influenced the whole pattern of research in chemical kinetics during the past 40 years. His early studies on the mechanism of homogeneous gas reactions clarified theories about molecular activation through collisions, and also led to new ideas about chain propagation in thermal systems. He developed the theory of branched chain explosions, and by a skilful use of both catalysts and inhibitors he has disentangled many complex reactions involving free radicals. In the course of this work he has made important advances in our understanding of combustion, and also of some reactions of hydrocarbons which are of considerable practical significance. From measurements on reactions in the liquid phase he has been able to discover essential differences from the corresponding gaseous processes.

scholarly journals Financing innovations in the contemporary world

Revizor ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 24 (94) ◽  
pp. 25-35
Author(s):  
Lidija Madžar
Keyword(s):  
Strong Positive Correlation ◽  
Organizational Decision Making ◽  
Contemporary World ◽  
Funding Sources ◽  
New Ideas ◽  
Multidimensional Complex ◽  
Cumulative Process ◽  
Key Driver ◽  
Survival And Growth

As a practical application of new ideas, innovation is a multidimensional, complex, dynamic, long-term, and cumulative process based on organizational decision-making, from the stage of a new idea's emergence to its final implementation. There is a strong positive correlation between innovation and economic growth. Access to finance is a key driver of new innovative ventures' creation, survival, and growth. On the other hand, the lack of financial resources prevents and inhibits the growth and development of new innovative companies. This paper considers bootstrapping, crowdfunding, and mezzanine financing as widely accepted, specific innovation funding sources worldwide.

C. K. Ingold at University College London: educator and department head

1996 ◽  
Vol 29 (1) ◽  
pp. 65-82 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gerrylynn K. Roberts
Keyword(s):  
Organic Chemistry ◽  
Scientific Work ◽  
Scientific Output ◽  
Department Head ◽  
Chemistry Department ◽  
Physical Organic Chemistry ◽  
Physical Organic ◽  
University College ◽  
University College London ◽  
Considerable Discussion

The outstanding scientific work of Christopher Kelk Ingold (1893–1970) was the focus of considerable discussion, celebration and evaluation during the year of the centenary of his birth. In addition to understanding his prolific and highly original scientific output as a pioneer in the application of physical methods to organic chemistry and, indeed, as a founder of physical organic chemistry, it is also important to examine other aspects of Ingold's career, in particular his role in shaping the institutional context in which he developed his work. From 1930 until his death, Ingold was attached to a major international centre, the Chemistry Department of University College London. From 1937 to 1961, as its Head and Director of Laboratories, continuing the policies of his predecessor on chemical education and the organization of research, he developed a very distinctive chemistry department.

scholarly journals Corporate governance in state-owned enterprises. A systematic literature review: an international perspective

2021 ◽  
Vol 0 (0) ◽  
Author(s):  
Radosław Miążek
Keyword(s):  
Corporate Governance ◽  
Literature Review ◽  
Systematic Literature Review ◽  
Global Economy ◽  
World Literature ◽  
Scientific Work ◽  
Scientific Output ◽  
International Perspective ◽  
Point Of View ◽  
Positive Contribution

Abstract Background The state sector continues to play a significant role in the development of the global economy. Proper corporate governance is crucial to ensure the positive contribution of state-owned enterprises to the efficiency of the economy and its competitiveness. Despite the increasing importance of state-owned enterprises for the development of global gross domestic product and the quality of public services provided, research on corporate governance in state-owned enterprises is not widely represented in the world literature. Research aims This article provides a bibliographic analysis of the existing scientific work on corporate governance in state-owned enterprises. The aim of the analysis is to systematise the scientific output in this field, to demonstrate the scale of interest in this subject among researchers, and to indicate the predominant directions of research, taking into account their geographical origin. Methodology This study uses a systematic literature review. Findings The results of the research show that the existing scientific work in this field is insignificant in relation to the number of state-owned enterprises operating worldwide and their importance for the development of the global economy. Research by dominant research groups from the point of view of geography has shown that there is a clear variation in the dominant direction of research on corporate governance in state-owned enterprises, which is an indication of the different interests of researchers in different geographic areas. Analysing the factors underlying the differentiation just described could provide an incentive for further empirical research in this area.

NETWORK STRUCTURE AND INNOVATION IN STRATEGIC INNOVATION NETWORKS

2013 ◽  
Vol 17 (02) ◽  
pp. 1350002 ◽  
Author(s):  
TOMMY ROXENHALL
Keyword(s):  
Network Analysis ◽  
Network Structure ◽  
Scientific Work ◽  
Innovation Networks ◽  
Innovation Network ◽  
Theoretical Argument ◽  
Strategic Innovation ◽  
Innovation Outcomes

This paper seeks to improve our understanding of how network structure affects innovation outcomes in strategic innovation networks. The theoretical argument is illustrated by the case of a Swedish strategic innovation network. Asocial network analysis of the relationships between 58 network members was conducted. Roughly half of the network actors were involved in producing innovations; they had significantly larger, higher-density networks and occupied more central positions in their networks than did those not participating in the innovation or scientific work.

scholarly journals Edward Taylor – Outstanding Economist and Educator

2020 ◽  
Vol 2/2020 (88) ◽  
pp. 69-84
Author(s):  
Tadeusz Oleksyn ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Scientific Output ◽  
Theory And Practice ◽  
Science Publisher ◽  
Political Consequences ◽  
Teaching Economics ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
New Ideas ◽  
The Subject ◽  
Polish Economy ◽  
Edward Taylor

Purpose: The aim of this article is to reflect on the phenomenon of creativity, activity, output, extensive knowledge and interests of the Polish Scot, Edward Taylor – an outstanding economist and educator in the 20th century. I wish to draw attention to where his contribution was seen as the greatest and to the challenges that he indicated, particularly in the field of the theory and practice of economics. The aim is also to establish what thoughts of his have stood the test of time, which thoughts and convictions of his are still important and valid today, which may be an inspiration for contemporary Polish scientists, educators, students, and a wide range of readers who are interested in problematic economics, management, and political science issues. A brief description of the scientific output of professor E. Taylor is presented, as well as his opinions on the subject of the Polish economy and academic teaching, along with his non-professional interests, passions of life and interest in all facets of life. He could have been included in the liberal school of thought; in terms of a wide range of issues, his views were confluent with those of the most outstanding representatives of the Austrian School of Economics, albeit he didn’t belong to it. Design/methodology/approach: The following research techniques were used in the article: comparative analysis of literature (not only economic), deduction, induction, synthesis. Originality/value: Relatively original content: liberal thought in interwar Poland struggled to break through totalitarian ideologies, which had some supporters here, and also through nationalism and clericalism. After nearly a hundred years, at the turn of the second and third decades of the 21st century, things were generally similar. The reason for this is mainly the economic infantilism of a large part of society, susceptible to populist demagogy and the giving away of money by the current power. Teaching economics is objectively difficult for a variety of reasons. And then and now it does not generally produce good results. It means negative social and political consequences. Taylor’s diagnosis and counteractions were correct. They are worth getting to know better and continuing. Findings: The article shows the versatility of Taylor, who was not only an outstanding economist, educator, organizer of science, publisher and editor of a long scientific series, but also a man deeply involved in many different fields. He was a co-founder of the Polish Economic Society. He was a reformer of the Polish treasury. He fought against inflation and supported the development of the maritime economy. He was strongly involved in the development of cooperatives and territorial self-government. In each of these areas, he brought new ideas, values and solutions. His phenomenal interdisciplinarity and activity is shown.

scholarly journals Bim and vr: development of a software module for the integration of building information modelling and virtual reality

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (4) ◽  
pp. 440-449
Author(s):  
T. A. Kozlenko ◽  
S. V. Pridvizhkin
Keyword(s):  
Virtual Reality ◽  
Virtual Environment ◽  
New Technology ◽  
Scientific Work ◽  
Application Development ◽  
Software Module ◽  
Virtual Reality Technology ◽  
Building Information ◽  
New Ideas ◽  
Interactive Virtual Environment

Introduction. Based on the trends, the growing interest in VR technology in construction can be traced. This relatively new technology is rapidly replacing traditional visualization methods, providing users with an enhanced digital experience. The aim of the work is to analyze the application of virtual reality technology in construction, based on the analysis, determine how to improve integration and find new ideas for the application of technologies.Methods and materials. As a result of the analysis of previous studies, it was revealed that there are no methods for transferring data from the VR system to the BIM software. In connection with the identified problem, the goal of this scientific work is to improve the integration of VR and BIM technologies by automatically transferring data from a virtual reality program to the original information model.Results. In the course of the work, a project was created based on a BIM model made in the Autodesk Revit software package and imported into the Unreal Engine 4 game engine to create an interactive virtual environment. A new approach to the creation and presentation of a project sketch using virtual reality technology is considered - a method of intuitive design in a virtual environment.Discussion and conclusion. The software module is at the stage of early development; nevertheless, it has prospects for development into a full-fledged application available to any user. The paper provides the main directions for the continuation of the application development.

scholarly journals Edge Factors: Scientific Frontier Positions of Nations

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mikko Packalen
Keyword(s):  
United States ◽  
Biomedical Research ◽  
Text Analysis ◽  
Basic Science ◽  
Scientific Work ◽  
The United States ◽  
Training Environment ◽  
The World ◽  
New Ideas ◽  
Ready Access

AbstractA key decision in scientific work is whether to build on novel or well-established ideas. Because exploiting new ideas is often harder than more conventional science, novel work can be especially dependent on interactions with colleagues, the training environment, and ready access to potential collaborators. Location may thus influence the tendency to pursue work that is close to the edge of the scientific frontier in the sense that it builds on recent ideas. We calculate for each nation its position relative to the edge of the scientific frontier by measuring its propensity to build on relatively new ideas in biomedical research. Text analysis of 20+ million publications shows that the United States and South Korea have the highest tendencies for novel science. China has become a leader in favoring newer ideas when working with basic science ideas and research tools, but is still slow to adopt new clinical ideas. Many locations remain far behind the leaders in terms of their tendency to work with novel ideas, indicating that the world is far from flat in this regard.

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