What is it about?
This study examines how interest in the scientific journals Nature and Science has changed over time, using data from Google Trends. It looks at search patterns from around the world between 2004 and 2019, showing that while overall interest in both journals has declined, there are notable differences by region. Specifically, Nature has gained popularity in some areas, whereas Science has seen a drop in interest. The study also highlights a stronger preference for Nature among the general public and a greater affinity for Science in countries formerly part of the USSR.
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Why is it important?
This research is important because it provides insights into how global interest in leading scientific journals is shifting. By understanding these trends, researchers, publishers, and policymakers can better gauge the changing landscape of scientific communication and the factors influencing journal popularity. The study also offers a perspective on how historical and regional factors, like the Cold War, have impacted scientific interests and publication preferences.
Perspectives
From my perspective, this publication sheds light on the evolving dynamics of scientific journal readership and how historical and geopolitical factors play a role in shaping academic preferences. The findings underscore the need for journals to be aware of regional differences in interest and to consider how their editorial policies might affect their global reach. It's fascinating to see how historical contexts, such as the Cold War, continue to influence scientific communities and their preferences even decades later.
Houcemeddine Turki
Universite de Sfax
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Nature or Science: what Google Trends says, Scientometrics, May 2020, Springer Science + Business Media,
DOI: 10.1007/s11192-020-03511-8.
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