At last, a careful study on the so-called benefits of peer review: > > http://physicsworld.com/cws/article/news/43691-One of the best observations:-"This may be particularly apparent when referees are asked to review more controversial ideas that could damage their own standing within the community if they give their approval. "-I hadn't viewed the issue from this perspective before--and I see how this would have a chilling effect, especially with budgetary constraints.

At last, a careful study on the so-called benefits of peer review: > > http://physicsworld.com/cws/article/news/43691-Another peer review article: -http://www.the-scientist.com/2010/8/1/36/1/-And comments on that article:-http://www.the-scientist.com/article/display/57717/

This article reports on studies of medical interest, and shows that one-third or more of findings are reversed later:-http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/print/2010/11/lies-damned-lies-and-medical-science/8269-And I often see the re-discovery of stuff I knew 50 years ago!!