Code of Ethics

Overview

The Ohio State University Press journals program is committed to the highest standards of ethical conduct for journals publishers, editors, authors, and reviewers. We recommend the resources of COPE Core Practices (PDF) . Unless otherwise noted on the journals submissions pages, all OSU Press journals follow the general guidelines below. Statements on AI usage vary journal to journal, so please also search journal submission pages for specific policies

Journal's policies on authorship and contributorship

Authorship should accurately reflect individuals' contributions to the research and writing process. Only those who have made substantial contributions should be listed as authors, while others who played supporting roles may be acknowledged separately. To prevent unethical authorship practices, all authors must disclose their specific contributions if that is not clear. In case of disputes, we follow COPE guidelines to mediate and ensure fair resolution.

How the journal will handle complaints and appeals

Authors, reviewers, and readers can raise concerns about editorial decisions, ethical issues, or journal policies by submitting a written complaint to the editorial board. Complaints will be reviewed impartially, and we will follow COPE's best practices to ensure fairness.

How the journal will handle allegations of research misconduct

Allegations of misconduct—including fabrication, falsification, plagiarism, redundant publication, and unethical research practices—are taken seriously. Any suspected violation will be investigated following the principles of transparency and best practices of COPE guidelines.

When an allegation is raised, our editorial team will conduct a preliminary assessment. If there is sufficient evidence, we will notify relevant parties, including authors, institutions, and funding bodies. Depending on the severity, possible actions may include issuing corrections, retractions, or even a ban on future submissions. Integrity and transparency are fundamental to this process.

Journal's policies on conflicts of interest

All participants in the publication process must disclose financial, professional, or personal interests that could influence their work. Undisclosed conflicts of interest can compromise research credibility and the Press's integrity. Editors and reviewers with conflicts must recuse themselves from handling affected manuscripts.

Journal's policies on data sharing and reproducibility

Research integrity depends on data accuracy and transparency. Authors must present their data honestly, without manipulation or selective reporting. Where possible, raw data should be shared to promote transparency. If significant errors are discovered, authors must provide corrections or retractions.

In humanities research, “data” is often broader and interpretative. We value transparency in argumentation, sources, and methodologies. Authors must provide clear citations and explanations of their interpretive frameworks. While we encourage sharing primary sources, we recognize that some materials—such as confidential interviews or unpublished manuscripts—may not always be shareable.

Journals policy on ethical oversight

Ethical considerations vary across disciplines. Research involving human participants must adhere to informed consent, confidentiality, and protection of vulnerable populations. Studies involving animals must follow humane treatment guidelines. We also expect authors to be mindful of ethical concerns when working with historical texts, cultural artifacts, or marginalized communities.

Journal's policy on intellectual property

We expect all submitted work to be original and appropriately credited. This includes avoiding all forms of plagiarism, whether copying others' work or reusing your own previously published material without proper citation. Authors are responsible for obtaining permission for any third-party content and for clearly acknowledging all sources.

Journal's policies on corrections and retractions

Errata / Erratum notices will be posted in the following issue of the journal for brief errors of great importance. On the rare occasion that a complete retraction of an article is needed, notifications will also be prompt and clear on the website and in a notice in the next issue.