A Brief Review of the Four-decade Evolution of Science Popularization in China

Abstract

This article presents a brief review of the history, main achievements and challenges faced during the 40-year evolution of science popularization (SP) in China that began with the reform and opening up process. Four distinct phases are noted in the development of SP: institutional reconstruction, structural maturity, fast development of a legal system and comprehensive strategic upgrading. China has achieved much during these phases in the areas of SP mechanisms, funding, personnel, infrastructure, resources and civic scientific literacy. At the same time, it is also facing challenges in strategic positioning, the effectiveness of SP policies, internationalization, the construction of the SP system and scientific culture. Evidently, the government's prioritization of SP is critical for advancing this initiative. In the future, under the government's leadership, the following directions should be pursued: expanding and improving civic scientific literacy through a focus on internationalization; promoting scientific cooperation from a global perspective; establishing a long-term SP mechanism; and building a service platform to promote ‘smart SP’. SP in China is clearly on the right track and will continue to advance in the future.