My latest publication on the ideological and philosophical foundations of bibliometrics by Gorraiz, J. (University of Vienna)

Highlights

Critically challenges Gorraiz’s metaphorical framing of bibliometrics for neglecting empirical validation and operational applicability.
Demonstrates that citation metrics, when properly calibrated, have strong predictive validity—e.g., Clarivate’s Citation Laureates correctly anticipating 89 Nobel Prize winners.
Highlights economic and logistical advantages of bibliometrics over costly peer review systems such as the UK REF, which exceeds £250 million per cycle.
Uses the Portuguese case to reveal persistent reliance on quantitative heuristics even in formally metric-free assessments, exposing a gap between policy and practice.