Plutoing Pluto: The Roles of Narrative in Arenas of Scientific and Public Discourse

In 2006, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) voted to demote Pluto. Through an analysis of astronomical research, science journalism, and popular science publication, this essay details the roles that narrative has in communicating science both to expert and non-expert audiences. Pluto's academic and public controversy has resulted in scientists' prolific use of narrative to communicate research findings and engage in dialogue with peers and members of the public. The case of Pluto's demotion exemplifies the contribution of narrative science communication to the shaping of scientific practice and cultural conceptualizations of science.