Comic #6713: metrics

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Title: HOW SOCIAL SCIENCE METRICS WORK:

STEP 1:
Some Victorian guy comes up with an ad hoc test.
It's not a perfect measure but it'll work until we know more.

STEP 2:
The method, being the only one available, is handed to young researchers.
Try using Viscount Fitzjibble's protocol. It's the best we have so far.

STEP 3:
The method proliferates as its initial ad hoc nature is forgotten.
Good data but you need to run Viscount Fitzjibble's protocol to be consistent with the literature.

STEP 4:
The method becomes entrenched.
You didn't run a VFP? Christ Jesus can you even spell science?

STEP 5:
After a series of failures, new researchers call the method into question.
…and in fact Fitzjibble never intended it to be a permanent method. Who woulda thought?

STEP 6:
It is too late. The method is more powerful than the scientists.
All hail the method.
None of us believe in it, but none of us will fund projects that don’t use it.
But… but why?
Shhh! VFP is listening! VFP hears all!