Metrics: a long-term threat to society

摘要

A predictive h-index formula for measuring a scientist's potential success (D. E. Acuna et al. Nature 489,201-202; 2012) might be convenient for decision-making by hiring committees and funding agencies, but such metrics threaten the researchers wider contribution to society. Long-term creativity is needed if scientists are to inspire the younger generation. As Albert Einstein said, "creativity is the residue of time wasted" - but researchers are no longer in a position to waste time. Research pressures also curtail the quality of teaching and supervision, and disadvantage mothers who are trying to build a scientific career (K. R. O'Brien and K. P. Hapgood Oikos 121, 999-1004; 2012).