Promoting inclusive metrics of success and impact to dismantle a discriminatory reward system in science

Sarah W Davies, Hollie M Putnam, Tracy Ainsworth, Julia K Baum, Colleen B Bove, Sarah C Crosby, Isabelle M Côté, Anne Duplouy, Robinson W Fulweiler, Alyssa J Griffin, Torrance C Hanley, Tessa Hill, Adriana Humanes, Sangeeta Mangubhai, Anna Metaxas, Laura M Parker, Hanny E Rivera, Nyssa J Silbiger, Nicola S Smith, Ana K Spalding, Nikki Traylor-Knowles, Brooke L Weigel, Rachel M Wright and Amanda E Bates

PLOS Biology, 2021, vol. 19, issue 6, 1-15

Abstract: Success and impact metrics in science are based on a system that perpetuates sexist and racist “rewards” by prioritizing citations and impact factors. These metrics are flawed and biased against already marginalized groups and fail to accurately capture the breadth of individuals’ meaningful scientific impacts. We advocate shifting this outdated value system to advance science through principles of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. We outline pathways for a paradigm shift in scientific values based on multidimensional mentorship and promoting mentee well-being. These actions will require collective efforts supported by academic leaders and administrators to drive essential systemic change.This Essay argues that success and impact metrics in science are based on a system that perpetuates sexist and racist ‘rewards’ by prioritizing citations and impact factors; the authors advocate shifting this outdated value system to advance science through principles of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Date: 2021
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (11)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:plo:pbio00:3001282

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3001282

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