What's the difference between scholarly journals and popular magazines?

Why does it matter?

  • In your research project or paper, you need to show how your ideas relate to those of others.
  • In most cases, you'll want to use articles from scholarly journals to support your arguments because these are written by experts, include references you can consult, and have been carefully edited.
  • Sometimes, depending on your topic, you'll need to use articles from popular magazines.
  • Be sure to check with your professor or instructor that the sources you're using are acceptable for the assignment's requirements.
  • Finally, whatever sources you use, evaluate them carefully.
    • Does the author show bias and does it affect his/her conclusions?
    • Is the information accurate?
    • Does the author support his/her arguments with credible evidence?

A Quick Comparison

Scholarly Journals
Popular Magazines
Examples: Journal of Politics, Philosophical Quarterly, World Politics, Human Biology

Examples: People, Time, Newsweek, Vogue, National Geographic
Articles written by experts--often professors

Articles written by non-specialists

 

Articles often go through a peer review process--independent experts evaluate the article before it's published

 

 Articles are reviewed by an editor, but not by a panel of experts
Articles have footnotes and bibliographies

Articles may or may not mention sources in the text

 
Minimal advertising, graphics, or illustrations unless relevant to the article (for example, art journals)

Extensive advertising, lavish photos, colorful cover to market the magazine

 

Last updated 8/03 - sh




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