Predation in science

Scientific predation is the phenomenon of obtaining scientific reputation by exploiting others, influence trading and abuse of position. The case studies of scientific predation of anonymous and famous current and historical persons from the world of science are considered in the book. Predatory behavior in science causes artificial growth impact factor (IF) of the journal and the Hirsch index (h-index) of research impact, leading to an undeserved reputation in science and an unequal match in competing for projects and prizes, so that hierarchically high-ranking researchers obtain personal benefit at the expense of intellectual exploitation of subordinates. Some victims of intellectual predation get phantom attached co-authors, and some remain invisible and unnoticed in science. Predation in science, as well as mobbing can lead to the suicide of victims. There is a need for a change of the rules for doctoral studies, modification of the calculation methods for the impact factor of journals and the index of research impact, the way of selecting projects and Nobel Prize winners, as well as the world standardization of scientific publishing and the evaluation of universities quality.