What does this research mean for the field?

Peer review should incorporate kindness and constructive feedback to enhance scientific integrity and rigor. Novelty: ClaimNovelty.SYNTHESIS. Consensus alignment: ConsensusAlignment.NEUTRAL.

What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to emphasize the role of kindness in peer review to improve feedback quality and scientific rigor.

February 28, 2026

Putting the “Peer” Back in Peer Review

Key Points

The aim is to emphasize the role of kindness in peer review to improve feedback quality and scientific rigor.
Editorial approach discussing peer review practices
Incorporation of constructive feedback strategies
Emphasis on kindness and acknowledgment in reviews
Highlights the importance of positive reinforcement in reviews
Suggests that kindness can lead to improved manuscript quality
Promotes a collaborative approach to peer review discussions

Abstract

In Brief Kindness and helpful comments should be an important part of peer review, even if the recommendation is not to accept. Scientific integrity and rigor can be supported by being a colleague and acknowledging an aspect of the manuscript that is commendable while sharing your thoughts on how to make it better. In this editorial, Dr. Raposo, one of our 2025 MCN Editorial Fellows, shares his insightful strategies for effective encouraging peer review.

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Putting the “Peer” Back in Peer Review

Key Points

Abstract

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