Intellectual Compromise: The Bottom Line

Book by Ghiselin, Michael T.

Irrationality, inefficiency, and shoddy scholarship have replaced an honest approach to scientific research, according to the author, a comparative anatomist and authority on bioeconomics. Using economic theory as a framework to examine the current state of academia, he attacks such sacred processes as the methods by which manuscripts are selected for publication, grants are awarded, and professors are given tenure. "Good scientists do not lie," writes Ghiselin, but then good scientists have not received necessary support from the system. While much of his criticism is valid, this assessment is unusually bitter and may antagonize readers rather than encourage thoughtful response. Academic libraries may, nevertheless, find this appropriate.
- Laurie Bartolini, Lincoln Lib., Springfield, Ill.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.