What Is Valued and What Counts: Relationality, Gender, and Science Communication in Scientific Societies

Abstract

Feminist scholars critique conceptions of society as an aggregate of primarily self-interested and self-sufficient individuals who operate independently, challenging assumptions of atomistic individualism in neoliberal societies. Instead, they emphasize humans as inherently relational. However, valuing relationality raises issues, as women’s relational roles are often undervalued, reinforcing gendered expectations tied to self-sacrifice and caregiving. Within scientific societies, science communication exemplifies these dynamics, revealing the benefits and pitfalls of relational work. Drawing on a national survey and qualitative interviews with science communicators, this research contributes to feminist discussions on advancing gender equity and addressing the challenges of relational work within workplace contexts.