In Chapter 9 of They Say, I Say, the authors discuss how a writer should mix in both a formal and informal voice into their writing. One of their main points in favor of using relaxed language is that it helps connect with the reader: “ Such informal language also helps you connect with readers in a personal as well as an intellectual way” (122).
I agree with statement for the most part. In addition to it, I think that it is important to evaluate what kind of writing assignment you are doing. If it is a research paper, I think that the writing should almost exclusively use a formal tone. However, if the writing is a story or narrative, I think that informal language should be emphasized. I think that if a writer follows the same generic plan for everything, most of their writing would feel a bit off tone wise.
Despite this, I would find it interesting to see if scientific studies became more popular if the authors switched to a more informal writing style. This switch would allow for a wider audience as more people would be able to understand what the scientists are trying to communicate. In addition, a more casual tone will allow non experts a chance to follow breakthroughs from sciences and technology from primary sources rather than a news company. This would allow for people to be more informed as they would have better access to new information. One downside I see to academic papers becoming more informal is that there can be new articles that spread misinformation and can hide behind casual writing.