Abstract

Citizen science has emerged as an important approach to expanding public participation in scientific knowledge 
production, enabling non-professionals to contribute to research activities across diverse disciplines. However, 
despite its potential to democratize science, citizen science initiatives may reproduce existing social inequalities by 
creating uneven patterns of participation, access, recognition, and distribution of benefits. This study examines the 
relationship between citizen science and inequality by exploring how social, economic, technological, and 
institutional factors influence participation and outcomes. It analyzes the conceptual foundations of citizen science, 
focusing on participation, accessibility, and equity through the lens of participatory justice. The study further 
investigates historical and sociodemographic patterns of engagement, barriers affecting marginalized communities, 
and the unequal distribution of scientific resources and benefits among different social groups. It reviews 
methodological approaches for assessing equity in citizen science, including comparative analysis of participation 
rates, access to scientific data, recognition of contributions, and decision-making influence. The paper also 
examines case studies across disciplines and highlights the role of policy frameworks, institutional practices, and 
inclusive strategies in promoting equitable citizen science. Findings suggest that while citizen science provides 
opportunities for scientific empowerment, community engagement, and knowledge democratization, deliberate 
efforts are required to address digital divides, structural barriers, and unequal access to scientific opportunities. 
Achieving truly inclusive citizen science requires policies and practices that prioritize openness, accessibility, 
recognition, and meaningful participation of diverse communities.