Change refers to any meaningful transformation in ideas, practices, systems, or structures within the academic, scientific, or institutional landscape.

It can be:

• Theoretical – shifts in dominant models or paradigms.
• Technological – adoption of new tools, methods, or platforms.
• Cultural – redefinition of values, ethics, or priorities.
• Structural – reforms in governance, funding, access, or evaluation systems.

• Incremental – Gradual improvements (e.g. better peer review guidelines).
• Disruptive – Sudden and radical shifts (e.g. AI displacing traditional authorship).
• Performative – Superficial change meant to appear responsive (e.g. rebranding committees).
• Catalytic – Triggered by an external pressure or visionary actor (*see Catalyst*).

Change is often:

• Blocked by gatekeeping.
• Diluted by bureaucracy.
• Feared by institutions reliant on stability and prestige.
• Rebranded as reform to maintain control without altering power dynamics.

An academic society publishes a review praising AI but implements no change in its own practices — this is *rhetoric without reform*.

• Catalyst
• Disruption
• Academic Theater
• Gatekeeping
• Careerism

Bottom line: *True change questions foundations — not just decorates the façade.*