300458 Openness in the Communication System of Science (S) (WiSe 2023/2024)

Since the emergence of modern science, the principle of openly communicating scientific findings has stood as a crucial pillar in various disciplines. Its significance in advancing and accumulating knowledge is immeasurable. However, over the past three decades, we have witnessed two distinct and at times conflicting trends. On one hand, large publishing houses have transformed scientific publishing into a highly profitable industry, placing accessibility to scientific results in jeopardy. On the other hand, innovative publishing models have emerged, providing free digital access to scientific publications, a movement strongly endorsed by science policy. Furthermore, the importance of publication and citation metrics in research assessment continues to grow.
The objective of this seminar is to scrutinize and comprehend several recent developments within the scientific communication landscape, including the intricate interplay and conflicts among scientific, political, and economic orientations and interests. Additionally, we will delve into the manifold connections between the proliferation of metrics and the openness of the scientific communication system.