The theoretical origin of the knowledge-sharing mode of open access: From knowledge communism to academic capitalism

This paper adopts the science and technology studies perspective to explore the theoretical origin of open access to knowledge against the historical background of the interaction between science and society, as well as to clarify the benefit allocation and adjustment relations of different actors in the implementation process of the open-access mode. Focusing on the theoretical origin and realistic influence of open access,this paper investigates the historical changes of scientific knowledge from the common good to profitability and discusses different interpretations held by knowledge communism and academic capitalism concerning the property rights and social functions of scientific information. It also examines the role of commercial capital in commercializing academic resources and the substance of that commercialization. As a knowledge-sharing mode, open access is inevitable and rational. However, this mode involves many social problems, and there is a need to provide appropriate policies and systems.