This clip is important for those interested in scientific research specifically It contains a nice story that recently happened with a dear colleague
Peace be upon you and God’s mercy and blessings. Some may be surprised by the title of this meeting: “Even in Scientific Research: ‘Whoever is God-conscious, He will make a way out for him’” and think to themselves, “Of course, this is a general principle that applies to everything.” This is true, but some, when engaging in scientific research, act as though they do not believe this principle applies to their field. They engage in practices lacking in God-consciousness and integrity.
In this regard, I would like to share a meaningful story with you, one full of lessons. Its protagonist is a dear colleague, Dr. Ayman, whom I had the honor of co-supervising his master’s thesis many years ago. He called me and said, “Doctor, something happened, and I would like to consult you about it.”
Dr. Ayman had submitted a scientific paper (a new research study) to a journal, and he was the corresponding author. As is well known, the journal sends the paper to reviewers to provide their feedback. The first reviewer’s comments were ordinary, but the second reviewer asked Dr. Ayman to include 13 other scientific papers as references in his research.
Dr. Ayman says, “When I looked at these papers, I found that they had no direct relevance to my research. I was surprised. By tracing these papers, I discovered that one person’s name was repeated in all of them.” It is sometimes known that a reviewer may suggest that an author cite a related research paper, but requesting the inclusion of 13 unrelated papers is suspicious behavior and ethically unacceptable.
Dr. Ayman drafted a response to the journal and consulted me about it. I suggested he include statements clarifying the unprofessional nature of this request. Dr. Ayman reviewed the comments from the second reviewer, which were phrased as obligations: “You must include the following research papers,” claiming that they would improve the reference list and discussion of the research.
Dr. Ayman could have complied with the reviewer’s request to increase the chances of his paper being accepted easily, but he chose the path of integrity. He sent a message to the journal stating, “I thank you for reviewing my paper, but I have noticed a serious ethical concern in the comments of the second reviewer. He requested the addition of 13 references to a specific individual that have no direct relevance to my research.”
He emphasized in his message, “I know that responding to these requests would increase the chances of my paper being accepted, but I am convinced of the necessity of maintaining scientific honesty and ethical integrity, especially since your journal has a good reputation.” He asked the journal to guide him on how to handle this situation.
Dr. Ayman sent his message in the evening, and the next morning, the journal replied that they would refer the matter to the editor. That same evening, a beautiful and meaningful response arrived. The editor apologized for what had happened and described the reviewer’s requests as “a departure from ethical standards.”
The editor wrote in his message, “I would like to personally express my gratitude to you for upholding scientific integrity and publication ethics in a way that could have made it easier to accept your work. Your vigilance and commitment to the reputation of our journal and the scientific community deserve praise.” He asked Dr. Ayman to disregard the second reviewer’s comments entirely and focus only on the constructive comments from the first reviewer.
But the surprises did not end there. The final part of the message revealed an even greater offer: the journal—coordinating with the publisher—invited Dr. Ayman to become the editor-in-chief of one of their journals that aligned with his expertise, in recognition of his unwavering commitment to research ethics and his professional handling of the incident.
This wonderful example embodies the Quranic verse:
When they have reached their term, either retain them honorably or release them honorably. Call two just witnesses from among you, and give upright testimony for the sake of God. This is an admonition for whoever believes in God and the Last Day. Whoever is God-conscious, He will make a way out for him, and provide for him from whence he does not expect. Whoever relies on God, He is sufficient for him. Indeed, God fulfills His command. God has set a measure for all things. (Quran 65:2–3)
From this, we derive several lessons:
My final advice: Be steadfast in upholding the truth, do not compromise on falsehood, and remain God-conscious in all aspects of your life.
Peace be upon you and God’s mercy.