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Discussion about the new Nature Index

Scientometrics volume 102, pages 1829–1830 (2015)Cite this article

Abstract

Very recently, the Nature Index has been proposed and published. It offers the possibility to rank institutions and countries according to the absolute numbers of papers published in a selection of 68 journals. We discuss the main elements of the Nature Index, and we wish to start a discussion about the Nature Index by stating four main points of criticism. The main problem of this Index seems to be the use of absolute numbers without normalization. Furthermore, measures of quality are reintroduced on the basis of reputation of journals rather than quality (impact) of single publications.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research, Heisenbergstr. 1, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany

    Robin Haunschild

  2. Division for Science and Innovation Studies, Administrative Headquarters of the Max Planck Society, Hofgartenstr. 8, 80539, Munich, Germany

    Lutz Bornmann

Authors
  1. Robin Haunschild
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  2. Lutz Bornmann
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Correspondence to Robin Haunschild.

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Haunschild, R., Bornmann, L. Discussion about the new Nature Index. Scientometrics 102, 1829–1830 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11192-014-1505-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11192-014-1505-2

Keywords

  • Absolute Number
  • Journal Impact Factor
  • Publication Output
  • Large Poll
  • Global Factor