Retraction Reactions
By Ivan Oransky, Adam Marcus
Scientists’ responses to published errors provide case studies of practices to avoid or embrace when engaging with the research community.
This Article From Issue
July-August 2025
Volume 113, Number 4
Page 208
Retracted papers are uncommon in research, but as they have increased, more than 20 Nobel laureates—some 2 percent of the 1,000-plus people and organizations who have won the prize—have retracted scientific papers. Altogether, those 22 winners have retracted 41 articles.
QUICK TAKE
- Errors in research are inevitable and occur at every level of science, from students to Nobel laureates. Paper retractions are one important way to correct those mistakes.
- Because most retractions are caused by misconduct, the practice has developed a stigma. Researchers and publishers are wary of issuing retractions, even for honest errors.
- How researchers respond to errors and retractions in their work can affect their professional reputations. Transparency is key to overcoming the stigma of retractions.
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