Theory of open access

This chapter provides a theoretical analysis of open access. It explores the rationale for providing free, immediate, open and unrestricted access to the output of research. This rationale is considered from a multi-dimensional perspective inclusive of socio-economic, legal and political dimensions. This chapter provides a theoretical analysis of open access. It explores the rationale for providing free, immediate, open and unrestricted access to the output of research. The chapter examines these underpinnings in the minds of the varied supporters and drivers from a social, economic, legal and political perspective. Open access is about a revolutionary change in how peer-reviewed literature and all other information are accessed, used, reused and generally exploited. The need to find a balance between the quest for profit and the provision of access to knowledge is the rationale for open access. The CEO of Springer noted that as long as the costs associated with the added value on the goods have been taken care of, and then open access can be provided to the general public. The open access movement is a movement for change, which some are pursuing within legally recognized limits, while others are more radical in their approach.