The Journal Impact Factor Paradox: Good Editorial Practices or Good Readers

Abstract

Over the past 60 years, the Journal Impact Factor (JIF) has exerted a growing influence on the global scientific and academic research community. This system, like any other, is not without its flaws, and it's crucial to acknowledge its limitations. While it can enhance a journal’s reputation as a leading platform for scientific and academic publications, it has also paved the way for unethical, predatory publishing practices that exploit impact factors to gauge journal quality. This underscores the need for a more nuanced approach to evaluating scholarly impact, considering the quality and relevance of research, not just its popularity. This shift in perspective can open new avenues for understanding and appreciating scholarly work¹.