Random thoughts on tourism studies : a dialogue amongst five scholars (Ⅳ) chapter four – ecosystems of the academia and knowledge production

Abstract

This part of the dialogue addresses the ecosystem of scientific research with particular reference to Tourism Studies as an exemplary field of knowledge production. Issues include, and are not limited to, 1) The current research assessment exercise along with its various quantifiable measures has acted as an inhibitor rather than an enabler of social science innovation and theoretical breakthrough; 2) Notable manifestations in the evolution of Tourism Studies as a field and corresponding features in its knowledge production; and 3) The roles of individuals and institutions in maintaining the ecosystem of the tourism academia. We believe these reflections are of implications to the growth of Tourism Studies as a research field or sub-discipline, to career advancements of individual researchers as knowledge producers working in this community, and to research institutions or administrators who are facilitating the implementation of social science research on tourism.