This article sought to give an overview of different interpretations and characterizations of socioscientific issues (SSIs) by identifying single entities that could form components of SSI and give examples of where single entities were combined to involve SSI in enhancing scientific literacy. Through a narrative literature review, the article examined how SSI within science education could contribute to promoting citizenship through personally responsible, participatory, justice oriented, and politically concerned reflections to support the development of the desired citizenry. The significance of this article lies on the synthesis of literature on the contribution and barriers of SSI in promoting the desired citizenry