SELF-CITATION: THE RISKS AND BENEFITS

Abstract

Self-reference is inevitable in scientific environment, and it is impossible to do without self-citations at all. It is common practice in the scientific world when an author refers to his previous works. It is acceptable in moderation, without indulging in excessive self-citation. Much debate have been initiated about the role, benefits and risks of self-citation, thus becoming the purpose of our article. The findings suggest self-citation to be neither good nor bad in its nature, with effect much depending on the author’s final incentive.