RT Journal
A1 Hoffman JR, Wilkes MS, Schriger DL, Morgan MT
T1 EDitorial independence and the journal
JF JAMA
JO JAMA
YR 1999
FD May 19
VO 281
IS 19
SP 1793
OP 1793
DO 10-1001/pubs.JAMA-ISSN-0098-7484-281-19-jbk0519
UL http://dx.doi.org/10-1001/pubs.JAMA-ISSN-0098-7484-281-19-jbk0519
AB 
Although we applaud the sentiments expressed by the remaining members
of the editorial board in their subsequent editorial,1 we believe their comments ring hollow, given their ultimately far more
eloquent actions. Claim though the board may to "reaffirm"
THE JOURNAL's independence, its tacit compliance
with Dr Lundberg's ouster affirms only the members' acceptance of the
AMA's authority to control editorial policy for its own political ends
and their personal unwillingness to stand up for the principles they
claim to honor. If the editors do value academic freedom, and
THE JOURNAL's independence, they can only
demonstrate this by following the lead of Dr Donald Lindberg and
refusing to participate further unless and until Lundberg is offered
his position back and Dr Anderson is himself fired. (Although the AMA
has apparently backpedaled somewhat by making a settlement with
Lundberg, any action short of an offer of full reinstatement amounts to
continued tampering with the editorial process.)