Citation Ethics in Educational Research: On Coercing Citations and Establishing Citation Cartels

Vol.25,No.3(2020)
Studia paedagogica

Abstract
Although numbers of citations are considered to be indicators of a researcher's reputation and contributions in academia, citations can also be assigned a certain economic value. This economic approach can be observed in Czechia, too, which motivates some researchers to gain citations using ethically problematic methods. Therefore, the aim of this study is to discuss issues related to citations. Selected excerpts, which originate from the authors' academic experience and observations, document how researchers coerce citations and establish citation cartels. Viewed from the perspective of Merton's scientific ethos, these practices undermine openmindedness, transparency, and a critical approach in research. We present some recommendations for ethically correct citations in the conclusion of this paper.

Keywords:
ethics of science; publication ethics; questionable research practices; citations; coercive citations; citation cartels
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