Ross Mounce,Cynthia Parr, Google+

Comments from a Google+ thread by Ross Mounce, Cynthia Parr and others in response to an email request from the journal “Trends in Ecology and Evolution (TREE)” (published by Elsevier) to participate in a discussion forum. Cynthia Parr also includes a letter written by herself and co-authors of a recently published article in opposition to Elsevier’s publishing practices and support of RWA. An excerpt from the letter states: “We were recently invited to join a discussion forum surrounding the special issue[of TREE]. At this point, having little faith that Elsevier can provide the atmosphere of openness that should be the hallmark of modern science, and knowing of calls to boycott Elsevier and its products, we are in a difficult position. We cannot promote the special issue and our paper without appearing to support Elsevier and its outdated, obstructionist views. So, we will not be participating in the forum. Instead we will actively encourage discussion in more progressive venues. We will consider any other publishing alternative besides Elsevier for future manuscripts and reviewing services. We call on Elsevier to expand its options for sponsored open access and withdraw its support for the Research Works Act... Scientists have more choices than ever. We choose to support those who are working for reasonable costs for free and open access to the scientific literature...”