Artificial Intelligence Policy

1. Scope

This policy governs the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools, including but not limited to large language models (LLMs), in the preparation, submission, peer review, and editorial handling of manuscripts submitted to Sofist: An International Journal of Philosophy.

This policy aligns with the guidelines of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE).

2. Authorship and Responsibility

AI tools cannot be listed as authors or co-authors.

Authorship is limited to human contributors who meet accepted authorship criteria.

Authors retain full responsibility for:

  • the accuracy of all content,
  • the validity of arguments,
  • the integrity of references,
  • and compliance with ethical standards.

The use of AI tools does not transfer or reduce this responsibility.

3. Permissible Uses

AI tools may be used for limited, non-substantive assistance, including:

  • language editing (grammar, clarity, style),
  • translation,
  • formatting and structural suggestions.

Such use is acceptable provided that it does not alter the intellectual content of the manuscript.

4. Restricted Uses

AI tools must not be used to:

  • generate core arguments, analyses, or interpretations without critical human oversight,
  • fabricate, manipulate, or infer references,
  • produce unverifiable or misleading scholarly content.

Any AI-assisted content must be critically evaluated and verified by the authors.

5. Mandatory Disclosure

If AI tools are used beyond minor assistance, authors must include a statement titled “AI Use Disclosure” in the manuscript.

This statement must specify:

  • the name of the tool,
  • the purpose of use,
  • the extent of use.

Example:

Portions of this manuscript were prepared with the assistance of [tool name] for language editing and structural refinement. All content has been reviewed and verified by the authors.

6. Data Protection and Confidentiality

Authors must not upload confidential, sensitive, or unpublished data to AI systems.

Use of AI tools must comply with applicable data protection and privacy standards.

7. Review and Editorial Process

Reviewers and editors must not upload submitted manuscripts or confidential materials to AI tools.

Limited AI use (e.g., language suggestions) is permissible only if confidentiality is strictly preserved.

8. Misconduct and Enforcement

Failure to disclose AI use, or misuse of AI tools (including fabrication, plagiarism, or unverified content generation), constitutes academic misconduct.

The journal reserves the right to:

  • reject submissions,
  • request revisions,
  • retract published articles where necessary.