Dear all,
I have had a couple of experiences answering R&Rs. In general, it has gone smoothly and the reviews have been always reasonable. They always have helped to improve the first draft definitely. But I recently received an R&R, and I have serious differences with the reviewer. They are not methodological or technical, but interpretative, philosophical and theoretical. What do you recommend? How should I answer those reviews? Until what point should I be condescending?
Be polite, of course - it is, for example, not wise to claim that a reviewer has misunderstood. Instead you should volunteer to revise the sections that were not well enough written, according to the reviewer. And if - as here - there might be a difference in philosophy/rgeory, ask the editor to help out by arranging a forum where the differences can be discussed - with the editor as a mediator.
I hope it works - good luck!
Be polite, of course - it is, for example, not wise to claim that a reviewer has misunderstood. Instead you should volunteer to revise the sections that were not well enough written, according to the reviewer. And if - as here - there might be a difference in philosophy/rgeory, ask the editor to help out by arranging a forum where the differences can be discussed - with the editor as a mediator.
I hope it works - good luck!
Many reviewers do not agree the newer and more advanced theories than they are working on. I agree with the suggestions by Michael Patriksson . It is only the editor who can help. So, the editor should be convinced first so that she/he could change the reviewers if necessary.
Michael Patriksson 's first two words are key. Assume that the reviewer will see your cover letter and that s/he may not be convinced by your different views (on technical issues your goal should be to convince them). Your goal here should be for them to write to the editor something like: "While I disagree with the authors on this point, I understand their point of view and think that publishing it will add to the debate in the literature." You will be sitting with them at a conference one day!
I agree with the replies given so far. You can always disagree with a reviewer (to a certain extent, of course, if you want your manuscript to be published). The key is to be polite and to provide a sound argument demonstrating your grounds for the disagreement. Daniel Wright is right. Although you are responding to the reviewer, you are primarily trying to convince the editor. Also pay careful attention to the reviewer's comments and if possible, conduct further research. You may be able to show the weaknesses in their stance, or at least clarify the differences by showing your comprehension of where they are coming from and why you are taking a different route. It may come down to the editor choosing the side with the better, more convincing argument, or the side that better aligns with the journal's goals, mission, etc.
Polite response wins it almost all. Also, quote your evidence to disagree with facts and reference(s).
Thank the reviewer first and politely submit your claim that you would appreciate it if the reviewer would take a second look offering to provide additional back up material as necessary and leaving it open for the reviewer to ask any additional questions/clarifications. Express interest that you are more than willing to improve and make it worthwhile.
For me, in my little experience in article publication and reviewing manuscripts, I think you can disagree with reviewer in a polite and constructive manner. Letting such reviewer see your own side of the issue and why you disagree with his or her suggestions on such manuscript. Journals also know that reviewers are humans and are not infallible, they can Aldo commit errors sometimes not having a critical look at the issues raised on the manuscript.
For me, provide rebuttals for those comments you did not agree with politely and constructively.
You can always defend your manuscript and write to the reviewer(s). Elaborating on your idea supporting it with strong evidence and rationale help reviewers reconsider and approve your manuscript.
Be polite, give proper argument to explain why you differ with reviewer comment, and let the editor decide.
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