Körner, RobertRobertKörner0000-0001-8793-08302025-09-052025-09-0520251664-1078https://fis.uni-bamberg.de/handle/uniba/110276Direct citations enhance an individual researcher’s reputation through different processes such as social contagion or a “success leads to more success” effect. However, people tend to overestimate personal control and intent behind external factors that drive the discovery of innovations. One way to counteract these biases and illusions is to use indirect citations, focusing attention on theories and findings rather than on individual researchers.engcitation behaviorindirect citationdirect citationauthorshipillusion of controlMatthew effectintentional stance020150Researchers aren't the story : why we should cite theories and findings, not peoplearticle10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1663529