同行评审过程是现代科学论文出版的一个基本方面,支撑必要的质量控制。在1700年代首次概念化,这是一个迭代过程,旨在将科学文献提升到最高标准,同时防止科学上不健全的出版物,潜在的误导,甚至抄袭信息。人们普遍认为,对科学论文的同行评审是研究过程中不可替代的基本方面。然而,研究和技术的快速增长导致出版物数量大幅增加。这导致对同行审查制度的压力增加。有几种既定的同行评审方法,从单盲和双盲到公开透明的审查,但它们在期刊和研究领域的实施差异很大。一些期刊正在测试全新的方法(如协作评论),而其他人正在试点改变既定的方法。鉴于出版物数量的空前增长,以及随之而来的期刊负担,编辑,和审稿人,必须提高同行评审过程的质量和效率。在这里,我们评估同行评审过程,从它的历史渊源到当前的实践和未来的方向。
The peer review process is a fundamental aspect of modern scientific paper publishing, underpinning essential quality control. First conceptualised in the 1700s, it is an iterative process that aims to elevate scientific literature to the highest standards whilst preventing publication of scientifically unsound, potentially misleading, and even plagiarised information. It is widely accepted that the peer review of scientific papers is an irreplaceable and fundamental aspect of the research process. However, the rapid growth of research and technology has led to a huge increase in the number of publications. This has led to increased pressure on the peer review system. There are several established peer review methodologies, ranging from single and double blind to open and transparent review, but their implementation across journals and research fields varies greatly. Some journals are testing entirely novel approaches (such as collaborative reviews), whilst others are piloting changes to established methods. Given the unprecedented growth in publication numbers, and the ensuing burden on journals, editors, and reviewers, it is imperative to improve the quality and efficiency of the peer review process. Herein we evaluate the peer review process, from its historical origins to current practice and future directions.