Information, Medium & Society: Twenty-second International Conference on Publishing Studies

Abstract

Academic publishing serves as a cornerstone of knowledge dissemination, fostering the advancement of research and ideas. However, within this process, a complex interplay of gatekeeper effects can significantly influence whose voices ultimately find representation. This paper delves into the intricate dynamics of gatekeeper effects within academic publishing, scrutinizing the mechanisms that shape the selection, amplification, and exclusion of voices. It also delves into the potential remedies and strategies that can be employed to mitigate the negative impact of gatekeeper effects, fostering inclusivity, diversity, and equitable representation in academic publishing. By examining the role of various gatekeepers, including but not limited to journal editors, peer reviewers, funding bodies, and institutional affiliations, this study sheds light on the potential biases and power dynamics that can impact whose research gains visibility and readership. Through a comprehensive analysis of data collected from researchers who have submitted papers to the African Journal of Inter/Multidisciplinary Studies (AJIMS), and qualitative interviews with researchers who might have experienced gatekeepers’ effect, I explore the underrepresented perspectives that often remain marginalized in the academic discourse. In conclusion, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of gatekeeper effects in academic publishing, highlighting the need for increased transparency, inclusivity, and diverse representation. By addressing these issues, the academic community can move closer to a publishing landscape that genuinely reflects the breadth of voices and ideas that enrich scholarly discourse.