The main purpose of retractions, according to the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE), is to ____________.

The main purpose of retractions, as stated by the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE), is to correct the literature. When significant errors, misconduct, or ethical issues are identified in published research, a retraction serves as a formal statement indicating that the findings should not be considered valid or reliable. This process helps maintain the integrity of academic publishing, as it ensures that the scientific community and the public are aware of inaccuracies and can make informed decisions based on the best available evidence. By retracting a paper, the authors and publishers also acknowledge responsibility for the issues found, allowing for accountability within the research community. This correction mechanism is essential for upholding trust in published literature and ensuring that future research builds on accurate and honest scientific work.