An essential part of this system, then as now, is competition. The base human instinct to beat the other guy is an essential characteristic of science, notwithstanding its tweedy reputation. Without competition, there would be no need for a citation—the coin of the realm for scientists. Without competition, there would be no triumph of discovery, no glory in being first to discern a truth where there had been only questions. Economists have long recognized the essential role of competition in fostering innovation and as a spur toward technological innovation. Competition pushes innovators and
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