Where Does the Future of an Intellectual Structure of the EAQ Corpus Lie? A Response to Hallinger et al.'s Empirical Reflection

Abstract

Purpose: This response cautions against narrowly interpreting Hallinger's bibliometric findings on the intellectual structure and impact of Educational Administration Quarterly (EAQ). It highlights two main issues when using citations to measure influence. Response Argument: First, citations reflect a variety of motivations beyond acknowledging intellectual contribution, such as persuasion, allegiance-signaling, and preferential attachment. The sleeping beauty phenomenon and citation bias can further distort the interpretation of bibliometric findings. Second, setting thresholds for co-citation networks renders the periphery invisible; however, the periphery contains anomalies that could spur future paradigm shifts. Implications: The response urges embracing diverse views and nuanced interpretations to prevent perpetuating existing inequalities.