Scientific dissemination: paths to the popularization of the humanities

Abstract

Introduction: The article examines the specificities of scientific dissemination in the Humanities within a context marked by misinformation, epistemic disputes, and the accelerated digital circulation of knowledge. It argues that the interpretive and situated nature of the humanities makes the translation of complex research outputs for diverse publics particularly challenging, given barriers of institutional recognition, language, and accessibility. The aim is to identify these challenges and propose strategies to strengthen the public communication of research in the field. Materials and methods: The study adopts a qualitative and analytical approach grounded in a critical review of national and international literature on science communication, published in Portuguese and English, with emphasis on public policies, institutional practices, and epistemological debates that shape dissemination in the humanities. Results: The analysis identifies structural obstacles such as conventional academic metrics, underfunding, fragmented practices, and the challenges posed by infodemic dynamics, and it maps promising strategies—for example, integrating communication into the research cycle, training researchers in accessible and digital languages, creating interinstitutional networks, developing operational dissemination plans, and employing storytelling techniques. It also synthesizes recommendations for translating academic content into accessible and multimedia formats. Discussion: The article argues that scientific dissemination is a social and political practice capable of enhancing public debate, countering misinformation, and expanding the social value of the humanities. It contends that strengthening dissemination requires institutionalization, communication training, and articulation with open science agendas, thereby promoting qualified engagement, greater public legitimacy, and more effective contributions to democratic processes.