The phrase “publish or perish” has become a familiar mantra in the academic world, evoking a sense of urgency and pressure to constantly produce scholarly work. But where did this phrase originate from? This question has intrigued many since it was first raised by Eugene Garfield in 1996. In this article, we will explore the evolution of the meaning of “publish or perish” and uncover its earliest known use.
The term “publish or perish” was first coined by the American sociologist and information scientist, Eugene Garfield. In his 1996 paper titled “The Meaning of ‘Publish or Perish'”, Garfield discussed the increasing emphasis on publishing in academia and its potential consequences on the tenure and promotion of faculty members. He argued that in order to succeed in the academic world, one must constantly publish their research or risk being left behind.
However, the phrase “publish or perish” did not originate with Garfield. It can be traced back to the early 1900s when it was used in various contexts, such as in the business world and in political campaigns. But it was only in the academic setting that it gained widespread usage and significance.
The phrase has evolved over time and has come to represent the pressure and competition in academia to publish research in order to advance one’s career. It has become a measure of success and a necessary requirement for tenure and promotion in many universities.
But where did the phrase “publish or perish” get its academic connotation? According to Vladimir Moskovkin, a professor at the University of Helsinki, the phrase was first used in the academic world in the 1950s. In his 2016 paper titled “The Origins of Publish or Perish: The Academic Formula for Success”, Moskovkin traced the earliest known use of the phrase to the University of Chicago.
In 1953, the University of Chicago’s president, Robert Maynard Hutchins, used the phrase in a speech to the faculty. He stated, “Publish or perish is still the rule in American higher education.” This was in reference to the university’s rigorous tenure and promotion process, which heavily relied on a candidate’s publication record.
Since then, the phrase has become deeply ingrained in the academic culture and has been used by many to describe the pressure to constantly produce research. It has also been the subject of many debates, with some arguing that it promotes quantity over quality and others defending its importance in advancing knowledge and academic careers.
The phrase has also taken on a more global significance, as the pressure to publish is not limited to American universities. With the rise of international rankings and the emphasis on research output, the phrase has become a universal symbol of the academic world.
Despite its negative connotation, “publish or perish” has also been a driving force for many academics. It has motivated them to push the boundaries of knowledge and make significant contributions to their fields. In a way, it has become a mantra for academic success.
However, it is important to note that the pressure to publish should not overshadow the value of quality research. As Moskovkin points out, “Publish or perish is not just about publishing, it’s about publishing quality research.” The focus should not be on simply meeting the quota, but on producing valuable and impactful work.
In conclusion, the phrase “publish or perish” has a long and intriguing history in the academic world. From its humble beginnings in the early 1900s to its current global significance, it has come to represent the pressure and competition in academia. While it has its critics, it has also been a driving force for many academics and has played a significant role in the advancement of knowledge. As we continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of academia, it is important to remember the true meaning of “publish or perish” – to produce quality research that contributes to the betterment of society.