On the origin and meaning of bibliometric indicators: Journals in the social sciences, 1886-1985

Abstract

In this study, it is demonstrated that, as disciplines mature, research articles in core journals become increasingly similar in their bibliometric features. Data were collected from research articles published in core journals in sociology, political science, and economics from 1886 through 1985 (N = 8,634). Variation in levels of use of footnotes and of visuals within the same discipline was found to decline over time, even though the means about which the variation was measured changed throughout the period. It is suggested that authors, editors, referees, and others come to view prevailing practices in the use of footnotes and visuals as disciplinary standards for the presentation of research. Comparison of change in levels of variation to change in levels of consensus described in disciplinary histories suggested an association between levels of agreement on presentational standards and levels of cognitive consensus. © 1992 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.