Publication ethics: Role and responsibility of authors

Indian J Gastroenterol. 2021 Feb;40(1):65-71. doi: 10.1007/s12664-020-01129-5. Epub 2021 Jan 22.

Abstract

Publication of scientific paper is critical for modern science evolution, and professional advancement. However, it comes with many responsibilities. An author must be aware of good publication practices. While refraining from scientific misconduct or research frauds, authors should adhere to Good Publication Practices (GPP). Publications which draw conclusions from manipulated or fabricated data could prove detrimental to society and health care research. Good science can blossom only when research is conducted and documented with complete honesty and ethics. Unfortunately, publish or perish attitude has led to unethical practices in scientific research and publications. There is need to identify, acknowledge, and generate awareness among junior researchers or postgraduate students to curb scientific misconduct and adopt GPP. This article discusses various unethical publication practices in research. Also, the role and responsibilities of authors have been discussed with the purpose of maintaining the credibility and objectivity of publication.

Keywords: Authorship; Biomedical ethics; Conflict of interest; Disclosure; Duplicate publication; Editorial policies; Journal article; Manuscript; Peer review; Plagiarism; Retracted publication; Scientific misconduct.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Authorship*
  • Biomedical Research / ethics*
  • Ethics, Research*
  • Humans
  • Professional Role
  • Publishing / ethics*
  • Scientific Misconduct / ethics*