KNOWLEDGE OR NOISE - SCIENTIFIC PUBLICATION AND THE ELECTRONIC JOURNAL

Over the last few years, the Internet has grown exponentially and is d eveloping a role in the exchange of scientific information. However, a number of problematic issues are associated with electronic publicati ons, including limited transmission speed, undependable file longevity , poorly documented postpublication editing, copyright infringement, a nd cultural impediments to acceptance. By measure of citation frequenc y, electronic journals seem to have limited influence within scientifi c discourse, but this medium is as yet in its infancy, Since electroni c publication enjoys many potential advantages over traditional print publication, it is expected to gain far greater influence over time, T he American Medical Association group of publications recognizes this and intends to develop its electronic publications with attention to m aintaining traditional critical scientific standards.