Magnitude decrease of the Matthew effect in citations: a study based on Nobel Prize articles

Guoqiang Liang (), Yaqin Li, Lurui Song and Chaoguang Huo ()
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Guoqiang Liang: Beijing University of Technology
Yaqin Li: Beijing University of Technology
Lurui Song: Beijing University of Technology
Chaoguang Huo: Renmin University of China

Scientometrics, 2023, vol. 128, issue 12, No 5, 6357-6371

Abstract: Abstract The Matthew effect is widely used by researchers across disciplines. However, few studies have focused on this effect’s magnitude variation on the background of the open access movement and expanded avenues to obtain information. Citation is the most widespread and basic form of scholarly recognition in the reward system of science, therefore, scientists are motivated to refer to the work of their peers where reference is due. This study assumes that the Matthew effect may not play a major role in science anymore and uses citations as a proxy to measure this effect, and calculates the citation fluctuation of Noble Laureates’ key publications before and after winning the award during 1901–2016. The results show that the coefficient of variation of citations is smaller for publications published after 1980 than for those published before. The median of citations in chemistry is higher than that for in physics, physiology, or medicine. Additionally, over 90% of publications published after 1980 were recognized by their community pre-award, while the ratio consisted of 84% and 75% for 1940–1980 and 1900–1940, respectively. Furthermore, the time range between publication and year awarded plays a role in this phenomenon. The study suggests a potential magnitude decrease in the Matthew effect, which is a reminder that most researchers nowadays will recognize the importance of scientific breakthrough in its early stage.

Keywords: Matthew effect; Nobel Prize; Citation analysis; Scientific breakthrough (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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DOI: 10.1007/s11192-023-04874-4

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