Viewing research assessment, the academic reward system, and academic publishing through the power/knowledge lens of Foucault

Abstract

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The academic research assessment system, the academic reward system, and the academic publishing system are interrelated mechanisms that facilitate the scholarly production of knowledge. This article considers these systems using a Foucauldian lens to examine the power/knowledge relationships found within and through these systems. A brief description of the various systems is introduced followed by examples of instances where Foucault's power, knowledge, discourse, and power/knowledge concepts are useful to provide a broader understanding of the norms and rules associated with each system, how these systems form a network of power relationships that reinforce and shape one another.

Keywords

• research assessment
• academic reward system
• academic publishing
• Foucault
• power/knowledge