Battle for ethics: philosopher criticizes the research system in Germany

Battle for ethics: philosopher criticizes the research system in Germany

Amrei Bahr, a philosopher at the University of Stuttgart, speaks in a recent interview about the critical situation in science and the challenges that researchers face today. Bahr, who also co-founded the “I am Hanna” initiative, particularly addresses the ethical problems associated with global waste management and urgently calls for changes to the open access publishing system.

“The open access system represents a financial burden for many scientists,” says Bahr. Open Access refers to open access to scientific publications, which makes it possible to consume research results online free of charge. Nevertheless, Bahr sees the associated costs and requirements as a hindrance, especially for young scientists.

Challenges of open access publishing

The open access publishing system is part of a larger trend in which science and research are increasingly digitized. According to the German National Library Publications are easily accessible to readers without access restrictions. They can be used regardless of location and without registration. On the other hand, publications with access restrictions can usually only be viewed in reading rooms and are more legally protected. These differences create a variety of barriers to accessing scientific information, which Bahr sees as problematic.

Bahr advocates for a more differentiated approach to recycling, especially with regard to electronic waste, which is problematic in countries like Ghana. She describes the existing systems as inadequate and deviates from conventional narratives that offer a simple solution without considering the underlying social and environmental problems.

In addition, she calls for better working conditions for scientists at universities. She particularly complains about the uncertainty and problems caused by fixed-term employment contracts. Their commitment is reflected in the above-mentioned initiative, which is directed against the injustices of the academic job market.

The role of science and open access

Bahr emphasizes that open access also includes ethical dimensions. It should not just be about making information public, but also about the responsibility that comes with publishing research results. The scientific organizations have increasingly called for this responsibility to be integrated into the open access model to prevent abuse and injustice.

Bahr sees an important role for the dialogue between researchers, the public and publishers in the future of science. She is convinced that real progress can only be achieved by increasing the involvement of all those involved in discussions about open access and its challenges.