Customer Reviews

Publish, Don't Perish: The Scholar's Guide to Academic Writing and Publishing

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Moxley, through his accessible book "Publish, Don't Perish", shows us why only 10-20 percent of professors are "responsible for the bulk of what is published" and offers practical avenues of how we can fix this problem. (xvi) This lack of participation causes two detrimental problems. One, only a few minds are guiding the respective fields (and society). Two, the "keys" of wisdom we are looking for may very well be in the minds of the silent 80-90 percent. But why is academia like this?

There is a false *myth* in academia is that academics (professors) cannot be both exceptional teachers and great scholars/researchers/writers. In addition, Moxley argues that because academics are so enthralled (because of tenure concerns) in looking for original ideas that they lose sight of the power of reviewing what is out there in their own words, which often times leads to engaging dialogues and breakthroughs. Furthermore, many academics, despite their degrees and intelligence, have such misunderstandings and misgivings about the writing process that they write only when they have to. He also talks about the desperate need for change in the academic journal review processes, including, but not limited to, more "blind" reviewing.

Anyone and everyone should read this book. We all have something important to say. A great many insights lie in each of us, writing helps us bring them out. There are, of course, a few dated references, but the research, reading, writing, and editing strategies he offers transcends time and can help graduate, undergraduate, and even high school students become great writers. I give this book the highest praise!

A very useful introduction to academic publishing. Have used this book for several years in an introductory Ph. D. course I teach