Diamonds and Dilemmas: The Evolving Role of No-Cost Open Access Journals

Abstract

This paper explores the multifaceted landscape of academic publishing fees, focusing on the shift from traditional subscription models to Article Processing Charges (APCs) in open access journals. Concerns arise regarding potential profit incentives, impact on institutional budgets, and the redirection of major funding agency support. The unequal access to publishing, exclusion of authors from developing countries, and the prevalence of the Diamond Open Access model are discussed. Additionally, the study addresses publisher profit margins and the representation of Diamond OA articles in mainstream databases. Navigating these complexities is crucial for fostering equitable access to scholarly knowledge in an evolving publishing paradigm.