[NeurIPS 2026] Will you be submitting your code alongside your submissions? [D]

As NeurIPS 2026 approaches, the academic community is grappling with the decision of whether to submit code alongside research papers. Proponents argue that including code enhances the credibility and reproducibility of research findings, allowing others to validate results effectively. This move could significantly boost transparency within the AI field, fostering an environment of collaboration and innovation. However, the practice raises legitimate concerns regarding plagiarism and the potential misuse of proprietary code.

Critics highlight that sharing code could lead to intellectual property theft, particularly in a highly competitive landscape where researchers aim to secure funding and recognition. The tension between promoting open science and protecting individual contributions is palpable, and many researchers are torn between these two perspectives. As the discussion unfolds, it reflects broader themes in the AI community about how to balance transparency with the protection of intellectual property rights.