How can passive voice be used to create a sense of objectivity in writing?

Passive voice can be used to create a sense of objectivity in writing by shifting the focus from the subject performing the action to the action itself or the object receiving the action. This allows the writer to present information in a more neutral and unbiased manner.

When using passive voice, the subject of the sentence becomes the receiver of the action, while the doer of the action is either omitted or placed in a prepositional phrase introduced by "by." This depersonalizes the sentence and places emphasis on the action or the object, rather than the individual or entity responsible for the action.

By using passive voice, the writer can distance themselves from the subject and present information objectively, without explicitly stating who is responsible for the action. This can be particularly useful in scientific or academic writing, where the focus is on presenting facts and information rather than personal opinions or biases.

For example, consider the following sentence in active voice: "The researchers conducted the experiment and obtained the results." This sentence clearly identifies the researchers as the doers of the action. However, by using passive voice, the sentence can be rewritten as: "The experiment was conducted and the results were obtained." In this passive construction, the focus is on the experiment and the results, rather than the researchers themselves.

By using passive voice, the writer can also avoid assigning blame or responsibility. This can be beneficial in situations where the focus is on the action or outcome, rather than attributing it to a specific individual or group. It allows for a more objective presentation of information, as it removes personal biases and judgments.

However, it is important to note that while passive voice can enhance objectivity, it should be used judiciously. Overusing passive voice can make writing appear dull or impersonal. Therefore, it is essential to strike a balance between active and passive voice, depending on the context and purpose of the writing.