FLICKR, ROBERT S DONOVANLast month, I proposed on this website that honorary authorship is an antiquated, misleading practice that can undermine the integrity of a scientific publication. I noted the qualifying attributes of authorship and the importance of recognizing additional contributors in the acknowledgement section.
But today, communicating scientific research transcends the traditional boundaries of author lists and acknowledgements. So what, exactly, does authorship mean in the digital age?
Scientists and publishers alike are grappling with plenty of logistical challenges. How are we to define authorship for digital content like YouTube videos, podcasts, and social media posts? Are scientific presentations—whether in person or virtual—citable? And if so, who should be credited, the presenter or every contributor behind the work? Who is accountable for such materials?
Because authorship can have a significant impact on science and society, accountability is critical. Those involved in scientific publication have a responsibility toward science and society to ensure the validity of their work.
In addition to its collective impact, authorship also affects individuals. Publications and ...
