Abstract
The use of first personal pronouns, such as "I" and "we," in academic writing has long been a subject of debate. While some argue that these pronouns should be avoided in order to maintain a formal and objective tone, there are also compelling reasons for supporting their use in academic writing.
One of the main arguments for using first personal pronouns is that they can make the writing more engaging and relatable. In a world where so much of our communication is digital and impersonal, the use of these pronouns can help to create a sense of connection and humanity in the writing. This can be particularly important in fields such as business, management, communication, or education, where the goal is to communicate with and engage readers in a more personal way. By acknowledging their own role in the research or analysis, authors can create a sense of connection with the reader, which can make the work more accessible and understandable.
In addition, using first personal pronouns can also make the writing more transparent and honest. By acknowledging their own perspective and experiences, authors can demonstrate their authenticity and honesty, which can build trust with the reader. This is especially important in fields where the authors is presenting their own research or experiences, as it allows the reader to understand the context and perspective from which the work is being presented. By being open and honest about their own experiences and involvement in the work, authors can help to create a sense of trust and credibility with the reader.
Another argument for using first personal pronouns is that they can help to make the writing more human and relatable. In fields such as social work or counseling, where the goal is to build relationships and communicate effectively with others, the use of these pronouns can help to create a sense of connection and understanding. By acknowledging their own feelings and experiences, authors can help the reader to feel a sense of empathy and connection with the work.
However, it is important to use first personal pronouns carefully and consider their potential impact on the credibility and authority of the work. In some cases, it may be more appropriate to avoid them in order to maintain a formal and objective tone. For example, in fields such as science or mathematics, where objectivity and neutrality are highly valued, the use of first personal pronouns may be seen as subjective and biased. In these cases, it may be better to avoid them in order to maintain a sense of neutrality and objectivity.
Despite these considerations, there are still good reasons for using first personal pronouns in academic writing. By understanding the potential benefits and drawbacks of these pronouns, authors can make informed decisions about how to use them effectively in their work. Whether used sparingly or more frequently, the use of first personal pronouns can help to make the writing more engaging, transparent, and relatable, and can help to build trust with the reader.
In conclusion, the use of first personal pronouns in academic writing is a complex and nuanced issue. While it is important to consider the potential impact on the credibility and authority of the work, there are also compelling reasons for supporting their use in certain contexts. Also, if you need to cite a source to justify the use of first personal pronouns, you can check using the first-person pronouns in academic writing based on APA Style.