Mainstream social media platforms as spaces for science communication (X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Bluesky, LinkedIn)

Abstract

The role of generalist social networks (specifically X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Bluesky and LinkedIn) as spaces for scientific dissemination is analysed. It starts from the paradox that it has never been easier to access scientific explanations and, at the same time, the context in which this content circulates has never been so fragile. It identifies audiences that trust science that follows affinity-based logic rather than purely informative logic, and algorithms that act as silent editors that prioritise the emotional over the verifiable. This analysis proposes that the evaluation of scientific dissemination on social media should incorporate qualitative evaluation criteria that lead to public debate.