What's Happening?
A recent study analyzed the use of passive voice in academic writing across three branches: social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences, from 1980 to 2020. The study found a significant decline in passive voice usage,
particularly in social sciences and humanities, due to shifts towards greater authorial visibility and methodological transparency. In contrast, the natural sciences showed stabilization in passive voice usage, reflecting a balance between evolving stylistic preferences and core epistemological needs. The study highlights the impact of style guides and editorial policies on writing practices.
Why It's Important?
The decline in passive voice usage reflects broader changes in academic writing norms, emphasizing clarity and authorial presence. This shift can enhance the readability and impact of academic work, making research more accessible to a wider audience. Understanding these trends can help educators tailor writing instruction to align with evolving standards, improving students' ability to communicate effectively in their fields. The study also underscores the role of compliance pressures in shaping writing practices, which can influence manuscript acceptance and academic publishing standards.
