Why do scientific and technical fields prefer passive voice over active voice to emphasize actions and results? How does passive voice contribute to objectivity, removing personal bias from research or reports? When does this preference improve clarity, neutrality, and professionalism in presenting factual information or experimental outcomes?
In scientific and technical fields, the preference for passive voice over active voice serves several purposes. Here are some reasons why this style of writing is favored in these disciplines:
1. Emphasis on Actions and Results: The passive voice is often used to emphasize the actions and results of an experiment or study rather than the individuals conducting them. This allows the focus to be on the research itself, rather than on who performed it.
2. Objective Tone: Passive voice helps maintain an objective tone by removing the doer of the action. In scientific writing, objectivity is crucial as researchers strive to present their findings without personal bias. Passive voice contributes to this objectivity by shifting the focus to the results rather than the researchers themselves.
3. Bias Reduction: By using passive voice, researchers can reduce the influence of personal bias in their writing. It allows for a more impartial presentation of facts and findings, highlighting the data and its implications rather than the individuals involved in the research.
4. Clarity and Professionalism: Passive voice can improve clarity and professionalism in scientific writing by focusing on the information being presented rather than the individuals involved. This can enhance the readability of research papers and reports, making them more accessible to a wider audience.
In summary, the preference for passive voice in scientific and technical fields is driven by the need to emphasize actions and results, maintain objectivity, reduce bias, and enhance clarity and professionalism in presenting factual information or experimental outcomes.