| Abstract [eng] |
The paradigm for academic and scientific style is changing. The old model is characterized by lack of concern for the reader, verbosity, vague and imprecise grammar, a hesitant, indecisive tone, and an impersonal, dehumanized style. The new style emphasizes ethical and aesthetic values such as clarity, honesty, responsibility, and authorial presence in the prose style. In Part II, I argue against using noun strings, an impersonal tone, and hedging devices, and I show how they counter the ethical and aesthetic values of good prose in English. In Part III, I argue that these faulty devices arise in part from a misunderstanding of objectivity and neutrality. I also suggest that some of these devices spring from a distaste for debate and an inability to both formulate and defend one’s views. I conclude by asserting that English language specialists, in settings where English is not the native language, should take the lead in promoting good English style in scientific and academic writing in English. |
