Why vulgarization is important ?
Vulgarization refers to the process of making complex concepts from specialized fields (such as science, technology, philosophy, etc.) understandable for a non-expert audience. The exercise is to simplify the concept while preserving its core essence, without distorting it. It is important to note that effective vulgarization means translating a complex idea while retaining its original essence.
Vulgarization is sometimes perceived negatively, as it shares the same root as the word “vulgar,” which suggests something common or simplistic. This perception may imply that the content is watered down or loses intellectual value. However, vulgarization is fundamentally about explanation and pedagogy, with a focus on precision and fidelity to the original concepts.
Popularization goes beyond explanation; it aims to disseminate ideas, discoveries, or concepts on a large scale, often with the intention of sparking interest or influencing public opinion. Using attractive tools and techniques (such as storytelling, visual media like infographics or animations) allows for effective distribution and engagement. The goal may include emotional appeal or the democratization of a subject, as well as raising awareness on societal issues like the environment.
Making Information Accessible
Many concepts, particularly in scientific, technical, or philosophical fields, can be complex. There is often jargon and terminology that can confuse and mislead the uninitiated. Drawing is a universal language. It can convey many emotions and messages.
“Drawing is a universal language. It can convey many emotions and messages.”
Popularization allows for making many concepts understandable to a wide audience, including those without specific training in these fields.
Awakening Interest and Curiosity
Poorly explained, badly presented, or overly technical ideas risk discouraging people. In contrast, well-done popularization can make a subject appealing and desirable. It can spark curiosity, even motivating people to learn more. Creating genuine interest in topics that might otherwise seem inaccessible is the domain of popularization.
Educating and Democratizing Knowledge
Popularization plays a key role in education by making scientific, cultural, or technical knowledge accessible to everyone. It contributes to the democratization of knowledge, allowing everyone to access important information, regardless of their initial education.
Breaking Barriers
Some ideas are often surrounded by specific terminology, jargon, or elitist terms that can exclude part of the population. Popularization helps break these barriers by simplifying terms and making ideas more inclusive. Some words used can be interpreted differently, which can obscure the message.
Example: Take the term “materialism” in philosophy. It takes on a completely different meaning for those who are not familiar with philosophy.
Influencing Public Opinion
When important concepts are popularized, they can reach a wide audience and influence social, political, and economic debates. Popularization helps make complex subjects understandable to everyone, while popularizing works towards widespread diffusion.
Promoting Dialogue
Simple and clear ideas are more easily shared and discussed. Popularization can foster open and constructive dialogue between different social, professional, and even cultural groups by making information understandable and accessible to everyone.
Stimulating Reflection
By simplifying a concept without distorting it, popularization can also stimulate personal reflection. It can give everyone the tools to understand complex issues and possibly challenge preconceived ideas or prejudices.
In Summary
- Vulgarization is about explaining to help people understand.
- Popularization is about spreading knowledge to make it widely known.
Both processes can coexist. For instance, a vulgarizer will make a subject comprehensible, and then a popularizer can transform it into engaging and viral content to reach a broader audience.
Popularization helps create bridges between knowledge and the public, while making ideas more relevant, understandable, and useful to the greatest number.
Moreover, there are many possible angles for personalizing this communication. The tone used, humor, and colors can add various nuances. We can also create an identity that allows you to stand out when publishing content on social media.
