The Publication of Physical Papers

Abstract

THE discussion started by Mr. J. Swinburne in NATURE of June 29, seems to have wandered from its original purpose, and from the points suggested in your article of July 13. It is the duty of an investigator in any branch of Natural Science to publish the results of his research if they appear to be both new and of sufficient interest. He has three courses open to him. He can write a book, relying on the advertisements of his publisher and on reviews to inform other workers that such a book exists. His space is unlimited, but he cannot make sure of a circulation unless by presentation copies. He may communicate his results to a scientific society. His space is somewhat limited, but he secures a definite circulation, and an opportunity for discussion. Or he can communicate them to some technical journal, securing generally the maximum circulation, but with considerable restriction as to space.