Which characteristic is NOT associated with peer review?

The characteristic that is not associated with peer review is that the author selects the reviewers. In a typical peer review process, reviewers are chosen by the journal editor or a designated committee, promoting impartiality and objectivity. This approach helps to ensure that the review process is free from biases that could arise if authors were to select individuals who might favor their work or share a close relationship.

In contrast, the other characteristics highlighted in the options are fundamental to the peer review system. Anonymity in the review process helps to prevent biases related to the identity of the author and the reviewers, while the emphasis on independence and objectivity is crucial for maintaining the integrity and credibility of the scientific process. Additionally, the peer review process is widely used in the evaluation of scientific documents as it helps to validate the quality and reliability of the research before publication.