JRP Submission ID#128
Submitted: Jan 9, 2008

TITLE: Scientific Journals as Fossil Traces of Sweeping Change in
the Structure and Practice of Modern Geology

ABSTRACT: In our attempts to track changes in geological practice
over time and to isolate the source of these changes, we have found
that they are largely connected with the germination of new geologic
subdisciplines.

We use keyword and title data from articles in 68 geology journals
to track the changes in influence of each subdiscipline on geology
over all.

Geological research has shifted emphasis over the study period,
moving away from economic geology and petroleum geology, towards
physics- and chemistry-based topics. The Apollo lunar landings had
as much influence on the topics and practice of geological research
as the much-cited plate-tectonics revolution. These results reflect
the barely-tangible effects of the changes in vocabulary and habit
of thought that have pervaded the substance of geology.

Geological literature has increased in volume and specialization,
resulting in a highly fragmentary literature. However, we infer
that "big science," characterized by large amounts of funding,
collaboration, and large logistical investments, makes use of this
specialization and turns "twigging" into a phenomenon that enhances,
rather than inhibits, the progress of science.

KEYWORDS: science studies, big science, twigging, lunar exploration

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Reviewers familiar with the topic may kindly respond.

Yours sincerely,

DP
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