Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy of the Journal of Social Study Policies

Fundamental Principles and Responsibilities for Authors in the Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence

• Generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools cannot under no circumstances be listed as the author or co-author of an academic manuscript.
• Authors are fully responsible for the content, accuracy, and originality of the submitted work; the use of AI does not eliminate them of their scientific, ethical, or intellectual responsibilities.
• The journal strictly prohibits the use of AI to create fictitious authorship or misrepresent identity.
• Authors must specify in detail the name, version number, purpose, and scope of the AI tools they use in the writing of the article or in the research processes in the AI declaration form and must transparently disclose this use within the article. Where appropriate, this declaration should be included in the “Method” section of the article.
• Authors are responsible for verifying the accuracy of information, sources, citations, data, and images generated by AI. In addition, authors must take care to protect personal data, confidential information, and the intellectual property rights of third parties when using AI tools.

Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) Use Policies for Editors

• Editors must not upload unpublished manuscripts, their associated files, images, or related information to AI tools. They must protect the confidentiality of such content and the intellectual property rights of authors.
• In cases of suspicion or uncertainty regarding AI use, editors should communicate openly with authors, request supporting evidence or further clarification where necessary, and refer cases requiring detailed examination to the Journal management. Editors must also carefully review authors’ declarations regarding AI use, assess whether the declared use complies with the Journal’s policies, and request additional information where necessary.
• Editors must keep abreast of developments in generative AI technologies and updates to the Journal’s policies and ensure that these policies are followed throughout the editorial process.

Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) Use Policies for Reviewers

• Reviewers are encouraged to base any concerns regarding possible undisclosed AI use in the manuscripts they review on clear and objective criteria and to inform the editors where necessary.
• Reviewers must under no circumstances upload unpublished manuscripts or related documents submitted for review to generative AI platforms. They must protect confidentiality and intellectual property rights.
• Peer review must be conducted in accordance with reviewers’ own expertise and knowledge. Authors’ declarations regarding AI use must also be assessed impartially, and personal opinions and biases must not be allowed to influence the review process.
• Feedback and criticism concerning AI use must be constructive and consistent with the Journal’s established policies and guidelines.

Permitted Areas of Use

• Conceptual Diagrams and Explanatory Images: Generative AI may be used to visually represent theoretical ideas, conceptual frameworks, or processes. Images created in this way must accurately reflect the author’s own understanding and explanations.
• Data Visualization: Authors may use AI tools to improve the visual presentation of research data. These tools may be particularly useful for enhancing the design and clarity of graphs, tables, and diagrams.
• Graphical Illustrations and Representative Images: Images generated using AI may be used as symbolic or explanatory representations to simplify and clarify complex ideas. Such images should support readers’ understanding of the subject and must not distort or misrepresent the concepts being discussed.
• Language, Writing, Spelling, and Expression Editing: AI tools may be used to edit and improve the language, writing, and spelling of a manuscript. However, authors are responsible for verifying the accuracy of the edits and checking the final version of the text.

Restricted or Prohibited Areas of Use of Artificial Intelligence

• Content Generation: The generation of substantial sections of a manuscript by AI, such as the abstract, introduction, literature review, or discussion section.
• Generation and Interpretation of Research Findings: The generation of scientific arguments, analyses, or inferences by generative AI.
• Reference Generation and Citation: Generating unverifiable sources, data, or citations, or presenting fabricated or manipulated images, tables, or artificial data, shall be considered an ethical violation.
• Academic Writing and Justification: The development of the manuscript’s fundamental arguments, theoretical contributions, and central thesis remains the sole responsibility of the author(s). AI may be used only as an assisting tool in the writing process and may not replace the author’s critical thinking or original academic contribution.

Revisions and Updates

If AI tools are updated or new versions are used after submission, authors must inform the Editorial Board of these changes.

Procedures to Be Followed in Cases of Policy Violation

If the use of AI tools is not explicitly disclosed or such tools are used in violation of these guidelines, the manuscript may be rejected during the evaluation process. If a violation is identified after publication, corrective measures, such as the publication of a correction or the retraction of the manuscript, may be implemented. Repeated or serious violations of this policy may result in the rejection of the author(s)’ future submissions to the Journal.

Note to Authors

Authors must be familiar with the specific AI policies and rules established by the journal to which they submit their manuscripts and must act in accordance with these provisions.

For detailed information on this subject, please refer to the Ethical Guidelines on the Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Scientific Research and Publication Activities at Higher Education Institutions (“Yükseköğretim Kurumları Bilimsel Araştırma ve Yayın Faaliyetlerinde Üretken Yapay Zekâ Kullanımına Dair Etik Rehber”).