Publishing Physics Without Institution: Any Tips?

[andresB]

But how do you afford to pay for access to technical publications to keep up with the current work of others if you have only a baker's salary?

Well, the same way I'm doing right now. I use exactly zero resources from the university, not even a library to access technical publications. Except for some obscure russian articles from the 70s, I think I've never had an issue finding the paper I want to read.

 

[berkeman]

I use exactly zero resources from the university, not even a library to access technical publications.

Interesting. Do you think it might be different for your field (mathmatics) versus physics? Are you able to access the math journals in your field for no charge, or do you make that investment on your own?

 

[andresB]

Interesting. Do you think it might be different for your field (mathmatics) versus physics? Are you able to access the math journals in your field for no charge, or do you make that investment on your own?

I...work in physics. Journals do charge for papers, but most authors nowadays publish preprints. Also, most people are willing to share a copy of their work if you ask them nicely. Worst case scenario, I have to ask around with friends and online groups if anyone can download the paper for me.

I would never pay a journal for a paper that authors gave them for free, of course.

 

[berkeman]

I...work in physics.

Oops, sorry. My mistake.

 

[mathwonk]

ok, just a suggestion.

1) establish priority by publishing in a self issued or easy access journal, then

2) send it to a university professor you know for advice on quality.

then you will know whether you have reason to send it to a standard journal.

good luck!

 

[WWGD]

ok, just a suggestion.

1) establish priority by publishing in a self issued or easy access journal, then

2) send it to a university professor you know for advice on quality.

then you will know whether you have reason to send it to a standard journal.

good luck!

3)? Be particulary respectful of them, their time and keep fully in mind they're doing you a favor by choosing to read/review your paper.

 

[Hornbein]

That reminds me of the the Bogdanoff brothers. They started doing popular science on TV and selling books but they were not taken seriously most of the time as they did not have a PHD. So they forced themselves into having one. Up to this day it is unclear how a jury allowed it.

John Baez interviewed the professors that granted the PhD. They said the brothers had been around long enough and it was time for them to move on. Aren't you concerned about your institution's prestige, asked John. We haven't got any prestige was the reply.

 

[berkeman]

Thread is closed temporarily for Moderation...

 

[berkeman]

After getting rid of a spammer, this thread has been moved to the General Discussion forum and is reopened.

 

[frankinstien]

I posted my paper on ResearchGate just to have a reference for publishing the idea. I'm assuming that should work just as well as certified mailing to oneself?

 

[fresh_42]

I posted my paper on ResearchGate just to have a reference for publishing the idea. I'm assuming that should work just as well as certified mailing to oneself?

To get an insurance policy that it was your idea, yes. To be referenced in serious papers, no.