The integration of AI into academic publishing introduces complex ethical dilemmas. From generating content to evaluating submissions, AI tools must be used transparently and responsibly to uphold scientific integrity.
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Ethical Challenges in AI-Assisted Scholarly Publishing
Ethical Challenges in AI-Assisted Scholarly Publishing
Ethical Challenges in AI-Assisted Scholarly Publishing
Dr.Nanci | Research design and Mixed Methods Research.
29 Jan, 2025
Dr.Nanci | Research design and Mixed Methods Research.
29 Jan, 2025
Introduction: AI and Ethical Considerations
The integration of AI into academic publishing introduces complex ethical dilemmas. From generating content to evaluating submissions, AI tools must be used transparently and responsibly to uphold scientific integrity [1].
Applications of AI in Academic Publishing
AI tools have transformed traditional publishing workflows, providing support in numerous areas [1] (Table 1) [2].
Key Ethical Concerns
Transparency in AI Use
Authors must disclose the use of AI tools, detailing their application in manuscript preparation or data analysis [1].
Journals should require authors to identify where AI-generated content appears [7].
Accountability and Authorship
AI cannot be listed as an author; the responsibility lies solely with human authors [2].
Authors must verify the accuracy of all AI-generated material to prevent misrepresentation or plagiarism.
Bias and Inaccuracy
AI algorithms may produce biased or inaccurate outputs, risking the credibility of scholarly work [3].
Recommendations for Ethical AI Use
Table 2: WAME Guidelines on AI and Scholarly Publishing
Guideline
Details
Disclosure
Authors must transparently report the use of AI tools in their manuscripts.
Accountability
Authors are responsible for verifying AI-generated content and ensuring proper attributions.
Editor Support
Journals should provide editors with AI detection tools to identify unethical practices.
Organizations such as COPE, ICMJE, and CSE emphasize the importance of transparency, accountability, and ethical use of AI in scholarly publishing [1]. Their recommendations include:
Prohibiting AI from being listed as an author [4].
Mandating clear disclosure of AI usage in manuscripts [5].
Ensuring editors and reviewers have access to AI detection tools [8].
Figure 1: Ethical Challenges in AI-Assisted Scholarly Publishing
Conclusion: Upholding Ethics in the Age of AI
To protect the integrity of scientific publishing, researchers, editors, and journals would have to take on ethical guidelines and policies for the usage of AI, so it becomes a helpful tool rather than a liability.