The Shifting ‘Self’ of Science’s Self-Governing Capacity: Four Decades of Research Integrity Discussions in Science and Nature

Abstract

The belief in science’s inherent self-corrective nature has been challenged by growing concerns over research integrity violations, leading to heightened scrutiny of scientific processes. Examining 40 years of discussions in Science and Nature, this article explores how debates on issues around research integrity reflect important shifts in the very meaning of ‘scientific self’ when speaking about the self-corrective capacity of science as well as evolving ‘geographies of responsibility’ within the research system. These journals—key voices in science and policy discourse—offer a lens to explore these processes of gradual transformation. We identify key narrative threads and turning points in understanding who is accountable for ensuring research integrity—extending beyond individual researchers to include institutions, funding bodies, journals, and whistleblowers. The analysis highlights how the scientific community has progressively reassembled its self-image, adapting to complex systemic challenges while engaging diverse stakeholders. These narratives, we argue, do more than document instances of transgressions of good scientific practice: They map broader transformations in the research ecosystem, revealing changing values, roles, and expectations. By analysing these shifts, we offer new insights into the interconnections between integrity concerns and systemic change, and into the conditions necessary for fostering responsible research practices and sustaining (public) trust in science.