The Philosopher

Lore & Background

The Philosopher was established in 1923 to provide a forum for new ideas across the entire range of philosophical topics, in the clearest and plainest language. It was the official publication of the Philosophical Society of England, a charitable organization founded in 1913. The society existed to promote the study of practical philosophy among the general public. The Society, in its original form, ceased to exist in 2014, although its chairman at the time, Michael Bavidge, claimed both its name and assets for his own local group, the 'Newcastle Group'. A series of internal arguments in 2014 led to the publication being split into two formats: an online-only edition led by Martin Cohen, and an initially print-only but soon print-and-online edition originally led by Michael Bavidge. Both publications claim to be direct continuations of The Philosopher prior to the split.

Reader's Guide

The online-only edition describes itself as 'a forum for short, original, brilliant and accessible articles'. The print and online edition describes itself as a 'forum for cutting-edge philosophical discussions to take place, prioritizing exciting up-and-coming thinkers as much as well-established leading figures.' The publication is written for the general non-academic public, with a focus on accessibility.

Did You Know?

• The Philosopher's first issue quoted A.S. Rappoport's A Primer of Philosophy (1904).
• Notable historical articles recovered include works by G. K. Chesterton, John Dewey, Erwin Schrödinger, and Moritz Schlick.
• The editors-in-chief have included Ada Sheridan, Martin Cohen, Michael Bavidge, and Anthony Morgan.