Tim W. Fawcett|Andrew D. Higginson
Heavy use of equations impedes communication among biologists
University of Bristol|University of Bristol
research biology empirical yet empirical studies rely fundamentally theoretical work generating testable predictions interpreting observations despite interdependence many empirical studies build largely empirical studies little direct reference relevant theory suggesting failure communication may hinder scientific progress investigate extent problem analyzed use mathematical equations affects scientific impact studies ecology evolution density equations article significant negative impact citation rates papers receiving 28 fewer citations overall additional equation per page main text long equationdense papers tend frequently cited theoretical papers increase outweighed sharp drop citations nontheoretical papers 35 fewer citations additional equation per page main text contrast equations presented accompanying appendix lessen papers impact analysis suggests possible strategies enhancing presentation mathematical models facilitate progress disciplines rely tight integration theoretical empirical work