ARJ: Past, Present, and Future: A Look Back and Ahead for Answers Research Journal

Where It All Began

It began on January 9, 2008, with much controversy. Despite such an initial reaction Answers Research Journal has, in just over two years, grown from a humble start with three peer-reviewed papers to a popular destination for serious creation researchers, and as a fast-growing repository of investigations from those on the new frontiers of science.

ARJ launched early in 2008 with the goal of bringing the best in creation science to publication as quickly, efficiently, and accurately as possible. This research is not only at the cutting edge, but freely available for everyone. The journal isn’t the first peer-reviewed biblical scientific journal, though critics attacked it as if it were, but it is the first free technical journal to break though the academic censorship with cutting insights not limited by page length or other restrictions common to printed journals.

Understandably, the secular world has not been happy. A journal that shows how God’s creation affirms the trustworthiness of the Bible, eschews evolutionary propaganda, and offers peer-reviewed research to build the creation model is certainly not going to sit well with those who want Darwinian indoctrination to be the only viewpoint allowed. Many secular journals chime in with mockery and derision (there have even been attempts to submit bogus papers), but God has used such attacks to bring hundreds of thousands of people to the site and to generate more interest in creation research than ever before.

In fact, the number—and quality—of the papers submitted in the first two years has exceeded expectations (32 papers in more than 400 pages—and more on the way this year). If you haven’t already, be sure to review Volume 1 and Volume 2. While it is true that secular journals have as many pages and more in each issue, thanks to the 2008 Sixth International Conference on Creationism, ARJ, and the other quality creation research journals, examining God’s world through the truth of His Word has never been as exciting or as popular, nor has there been such enthusiasm about real scientific research.

Clearly, ARJ is proving that there is no chasm between science and religion. Nature, instead, testifies to God’s glory—and the best is yet to come.

Dr Andrew Snelling, Editor, Looks Ahead

The Answers Research Journal is now firmly established. However, the first year was a challenge for several reasons. First, much attention was focused on preparations for the Sixth International Conference on Creationism, distracting potential authors, reviewers, and the editors. Second, a new journal has to first demonstrate its credibility and acceptability in order to attract and encourage the best creationist researchers to submit their papers to it. Third, there is always a significant lead time for potential authors to do their research and then prepare their papers. So, we were very satisfied, and grateful, that volume 1 for 2008 was completed with 16 high quality papers in nearly 200 pages.

The journal’s second year of operation in 2009 was equally successful, with the publication of another 16 high-quality papers in 210 pages. The Microbe Forum group of creationist microbiologists met in July 2009 to discuss their latest research, and their six technical papers were subsequently published over a six week period in the ARJ. More creationist researchers and potential authors are now aware of the journal, so we are now seeing them support the journal with submission of their best papers. The journal’s online publication in color, 24/7 global distribution, and instant online access all make it an attractive destination. Coupled with that are the speed, integrity, and thoroughness of the peer review process, which appeals to the best creationist researchers who want to see a high standard of research and publishing standards. The absence of specific publishing deadlines ensures papers are processed and prepared for publication as quickly as our editors, reviewers, and publishing staff can handle them.

The future continues to look bright for the Answers Research Journal. Already in 2010 we have received and published several important papers, including modelling of the post-Flood climate in the Yosemite area that resulted in the glaciation in that area, and untangling the philosophy of uniformitarianism that underpins much geological thinking.

Several more significant papers are in the pipeline, and current projections indicate the journal this year will greatly exceed last year’s page numbers. The Creation Biology and Geology Societies will again have their annual meetings in late July, where extended abstracts will be presented and published. Many good researchers use these opportunities to test the reception of their latest cutting-edge work, and based on feedback received then prepare their full technical papers for publication. Answers in Genesis research scientists will be involved in these meetings and will be soliciting more papers for the ARJ. Important research discussions and partnerships are also forged at these meetings, leading to new research projects.

The other good news is that quality original research being done by creationists is on the increase, especially as funding for that research is available. At Answers in Genesis all our research scientists are involved in research, writing, and publishing—supported by donors. And the ARJ is a vital part of our strategy. Additionally, the creationist research effort has been spearheaded by the Institute for Creation Research. It’s a healthy sign that the effort is more diversified—with more “players” contributing either independently or cooperatively. More quality creation research outputs more technical papers for publication, which augurs well for the ongoing success of the Answers Research Journal.

So, whichever way one looks, the future for the ARJ looks bright. With more cutting edge research being undertaken, you can look forward to many more top-class papers in 2010 and beyond, as the Lord blesses. We are counting on your ongoing prayer and support. Let’s get the word out that the bar has been raised for creationist research and publishing!