Publication and Citation Analysis as a Tool for Information Retrieval

Abstract

In this chapter an overview of citation analysis is presented, emphasizing its formal aspects as applied social network theory. As such citation linking can be considered a tool for information retrieval based on social interaction. It is, indeed, well-known that following citation links is an efficient method of information retrieval. Relations with web linking are highlighted. Yet, also social aspects related to the act of citing, such as the occurrence of invisible colleges, are discussed. We present some recent developments and present our opinion on some future developments. In this way we hope that the reader will realize how the fields of citation analysis and webometrics can be helpful in building social information retrieval systems.