Scientists slam top-down research priorities in public letter

A letter to The Guardian signed by a host of UK and international scientists says that science needs more mavericks and suggests that the use of peer review has impeded scientific discovery.

The letter says: “After 1970, politicians substantially expanded academic sectors. Peer review’s uses allowed the rise of priorities, impact etc, and is now virtually unavoidable. Applicants’ proposals must convince their peers that they serve national policies and are the best possible uses of resources. Success rates are about 25 per cent, and strict rules govern resubmissions.”

It goes on to say that almost all the “500 major discoveries” were initiated before 1970 and they “challenged mainstream science, and would probably be vetoed today." The letter adds, "Nowadays, fields where understanding is poor are usually neglected because researchers must convince experts that working in them will be beneficial."