Inertia refers to the tendency of academic institutions, research cultures, or clinical systems to resist change and continue established practices — regardless of their current relevance, effectiveness, or evidence base.

It mirrors the physical concept: once a structure is in motion (or still), it stays that way unless acted upon by significant external force.

• Persistence of outdated methods despite new evidence.
• Reluctance to adopt innovation unless mandated.
• Defensive routines to preserve hierarchy or tradition.
• Institutional fatigue disguised as stability.
• Bureaucratic friction that slows or blocks reform.

A department continues to use a surgical protocol from 1998 because “that’s how we’ve always done it,” despite newer, evidence-based alternatives — this is clinical inertia.

• Hinders scientific progress and quality improvement.
• Protects mediocrity and discourages critical review.
• Enables performative activity to replace substantive reform.
• Demotivates innovative individuals who face systemic resistance.

• Academic Theater
• Bureaucracy
• Gatekeeping
• Careerism

Bottom line: *Inertia is the silent enemy of improvement — not loud, but immovable.*