Sir

Your News story “One in three scientists confesses to having sinned” (Nature 435, 718–719; 200510.1038/435718b) and the corresponding Commentary article, “Scientists behaving badly”, by Brian C. Martinson and colleagues (Nature 435, 737–738; 2005) fail to stress one important explanation for the differences in reported misbehaviours between mid-career and early-career researchers.

Most young scientists choose their career and engage in research with enthusiasm and idealism — that is, with the idea of ‘doing good’, which is essential for high-quality and ethical research. However, in the rough world of today's science, they are exposed to an environment in which impact factors and awards are more important than advancing the knowledge of mankind. They become prone to disillusionment and loss of vision.

The problem of disillusionment will not be solved by simply imposing sanctions on a broader range of misbehaviour. Science needs to regain a state in which researchers can maintain their idealistic motivation throughout their career. This goal can be reached only by the combined efforts of all parties participating in the scientific process.

Disclaimer: I am at an early stage in my scientific career and not yet disillusioned: the preceding statements are based on that perspective.