Why Hide Research?
Me: Hey Dude, what are you working on for your research project?
Dude: mentions something esoteric
Me: Sounds cool! Can I see it? Could we work on it together? Could you put it on GitHub? That’d be cool …
Dude: I’m not sure that’s a good idea. What if someone stole my research?
I’ve seen this conversation happen in various forms. It’s the same bottom line. We are worried about sharing information because someone else could “steal” it and do something even more awesome with the knowledge.
You really can’t blame us for thinking this way. After all, we grew up hearing about poor souls like:
However,
No one lights a lamp, then hides it in a drawer. It’s put on a lamp stand so those entering the room have light to see where they’re going. — Jesus of Nazareth
See? Pro Open Source!!!
The purpose of research should be to advance our world.
To shine the light of science and reason upon areas of knowledge previously unexplored.
To go where others fear to go.
I asked my learned friend, Allen Gbolahan what Research is about and he said:
“To find out shit you don’t know.”
The thing is, research isn’t about you. It isn’t about the Nobel Laureates and Turing Awards either.
It’s about humanity.
We are in this world together, trying to improve it with our actions and in-actions. Or, at least, we should be. We should be striving to make it better.
Research is about helping to build the future.
You don’t do that by working in a corner.
When several people contribute, the quality of your research improves at a much faster rate. Hell, you are getting free reviews. Everyone benefits.
You become a leader in your research field and not a master. Your research stays alive even after you’re gone. And, again, everyone benefits.
Also, if you’re that bothered about it, remember that you never really lose ownership of your research, especially if you specify licenses that fit your requirements.
So, my scientific brethren … Share the knowledge you have. Cast your bread (data?) upon the waters and reap its rewards.