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> outsourced the domain knowledge to the journal reviewers Except that, by and large, those reviewers aren't being paid. So the 'outsourcing' argument isn't qu
by sago 11y ago
> outsourced the domain knowledge to the journal reviewers
Except that, by and large, those reviewers aren't being paid. So the 'outsourcing' argument isn't quite it. If it were there would be no problem with open access.
It is more about brand. They're outsourcing the need to determine quality by buying into a brand. That brand is kept afloat by unpaid labour on all sides, yet charges heftily for its brand. It is an understandable model, but not a very pleasant one. Unless you're an Elsevier shareholder, getting paid for your brand IP.
- Fomite 11y agoWhile their not being paid directly, it should be noted that reviewing, and sitting on editorial boards, is considered in a great many tenure decisions.
- anigbrowl 11y agoAgreed. When I use the term 'outsourcing' I mean that from grant administrators' point of view the scientific journal is a black box, providing X level of quality control for Y subscription cost.