Why I think that academic publications should be distributed online for free

I know this is discussed since a while on many platforms but especially now, as I am in need of distributions that I can’t get in the library here, I feel the need to emphasises the importance of free access to academic works. Research is already paid for by research centres and universities. There is no need to earn money with research publications as the research was most often funded by tax money in the first place. So I think that as everybody already paid for it, it should be made available for free. Often academic publishers take money for distributing an academic monograph and take money from customers who want to access this cultural good. This is very beneficial for the publisher but it is not for reader or writer. I strongly believe that if somebody wants to learn something it is beneficial for society if access is provided. And yes! I make use of google books but it is not as convenient as downloading a PDF of the article/ book in need.
I say free access to knowledge to ALL the people!

Leave a Reply