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The popularization of science II: Patterns of topical coverage

Abstract

Topical coverage by major scientific discipline on the part of six popular monthly magazines is compared to expected values based on the number of doctoral graduates per discipline. A major discrepancy is found in the relatively sparse coverage of chemistry. A case study of advances in catalysis is used to demonstrate that there are newsworthy developments in chemistry that could provide copious source materials. Speculative explanations for the relatively scant attention given to chemistry are advanced. The neglect of chemistry by the popular media is seen as a possible problem area for science educators who may depend on supplementary readings at all levels of instruction including informal adult education.

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Kidd, J.S. The popularization of science II: Patterns of topical coverage. Scientometrics 15, 241–255 (1989). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02017201

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02017201

Keywords

  • Catalysis
  • Science Educator
  • Source Material
  • Scientific Discipline
  • Problem Area