How is science effective? Climate science demonstrates a clear example of the disconnect between academic discovery and actions of the public. A historical lens provides insight on how the structure of the scientific community contributes to these challenges. This presentation focuses on the historical context of the central mechanisms of climate science and how the role of science communication has changed since the rise of modern science. Science communication’s role contributes to the difficulties climate action and similar movements face. Improvements to science communication in climate science and beyond remain a crucial issue, both to the individual and globally.