'Professors eat their own young': how competition can stifle good science

There is often more pressure for scientists to work against each other than together - but why?

In an ideal world, academic scientists would work together towards a common goal: discovery. Researchers would unite for a common cause, motivated by boundless curiosity, working selflessly towards the Greater Good.

While the pursuit of knowledge may be a noble thing, it's not actually that different from any other occupation, in that it requires a salary. Many scientists must apply for government grants to secure the funding that pays them, as well as to cover the costs of research projects.