Why Researchers Choose Ethics for High-Impact Publications
Ethics stands as a cornerstone in the field of philosophy, offering a distinguished platform for scholars to publish rigorous analyses on moral philosophy, political theory, and applied ethics. Established over a century ago, this journal has built a reputation for intellectual depth and scholarly excellence, attracting contributions from leading thinkers worldwide. Researchers value Ethics for its commitment to advancing debates in normative ethics, metaethics, and the intersections with law, economics, and social sciences. The journal's rigorous peer-review process ensures that only the most innovative and well-argued papers make it to publication, enhancing the credibility of authors' work in academic circles.
Publishing in Ethics not only elevates a researcher's profile but also contributes to shaping ethical discourse in contemporary society. With its focus on original articles, critical discussions, and book reviews, the journal covers a broad spectrum of philosophical inquiries, from theoretical foundations to practical implications. Scholars appreciate the journal's accessibility to diverse audiences, including philosophers, policymakers, and interdisciplinary experts. As you consider where to submit your next paper, Ethics offers a pathway to engage with timeless questions in a format that resonates globally.
The prestige associated with Ethics extends to career advancement, as citations from its pages bolster tenure dossiers and grant applications. For those navigating the academic job market, featuring publications here signals expertise and dedication. To explore opportunities, check out philosophy jobs or higher ed jobs in philosophy. Whether you're a graduate student or established professor, submitting to Ethics can be a pivotal step. Learn more about the submission process below and prepare your manuscript for potential impact.
Ready to advance your research? Visit the academic calendar for key deadlines or rate my professor for insights from peers.
Overview & History
Ethics, published by the University of Chicago Press, traces its origins to 1890, making it one of the oldest continuously published philosophy journals. Founded to promote ethical inquiry in an era of rapid social change, it has evolved to address modern challenges while maintaining its core mission of fostering philosophical dialogue. Over the decades, Ethics has featured seminal works by thinkers like John Dewey, Hannah Arendt, and contemporary figures in moral philosophy. Its longevity underscores a steadfast commitment to quality, with each issue delivering thought-provoking content that influences curricula and public policy.
The journal's editorial team, drawn from top institutions, ensures diverse perspectives. From its inception in the United States, Ethics has grown into an international resource, welcoming submissions that transcend borders. This historical depth provides context for understanding its role in philosophy today.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
Ethics encompasses a wide array of topics within philosophy, emphasizing moral and political dimensions. It publishes articles on normative ethics, metaethics, applied ethics, and political philosophy, including justice, rights, and democratic theory. The journal also explores interdisciplinary angles, such as ethics in bioethics, environmental philosophy, and global affairs.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Normative Ethics | Explores theories of right and wrong, virtue, and duty. |
| Metaethics | Investigates the foundations of moral language and ontology. |
| Political Philosophy | Covers governance, equality, and institutional ethics. |
| Applied Ethics | Applies philosophical principles to real-world issues like AI and climate. |
| Moral Psychology | Examines emotions, rationality, and moral judgment. |
This scope makes Ethics a versatile outlet for philosophers seeking to publish influential work.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor | 1.917 | Clarivate JCR 2022 |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 2.145 | Clarivate JCR 2022 |
| CiteScore | 2.8 | Scopus 2023 |
| h-Index | 85 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed | N/A |
These metrics highlight Ethics' solid standing in philosophy, with steady citation growth reflecting its relevance.
Indexing and Abstracting
Ethics is indexed in major databases, ensuring visibility for published research. Key services include Web of Science, Scopus, and the Philosopher's Index, facilitating discoverability among scholars. It is also abstracted in JSTOR and EBSCO, supporting archival access. This broad indexing aids in tracking citations and reaching interdisciplinary audiences. For more on academic resources, see library resources.
Publication Model and Fees
Ethics operates on a subscription-based model, with no article processing charges (APCs) for authors. Access is primarily through institutional subscriptions, though open access options are available via green archiving per Sherpa/RoMEO policies. The University of Chicago Press supports hybrid publishing, allowing authors to retain rights while gaining wide dissemination. This model benefits researchers without financial barriers to submission.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions to Ethics are handled electronically via the journal's online portal. Authors must prepare manuscripts in double-spaced format, up to 10,000 words, with abstracts and keywords. The process involves initial editorial screening followed by double-anonymous peer review, typically taking 6-12 months. Guidelines emphasize clarity, originality, and engagement with existing literature. For tips, explore tenure track advice. Always consult the official site for updates.
- Prepare abstract (150-200 words)
- Ensure anonymity for review
- Include references in Chicago style
- Submit via Editorial Manager
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial board of Ethics features distinguished philosophers from institutions like Oxford, Harvard, and NYU. Editor-in-Chief David Archard oversees a team with expertise in ethics and political theory. Notable members include scholars specializing in feminist ethics and global justice, ensuring balanced perspectives. Their collective experience guides the journal's high standards.
Why Publish in Ethics?
Publishing in Ethics offers unparalleled opportunities for impact in philosophy. Its readership includes top academics and influencers, amplifying your work's reach. The journal's prestige aids in career progression, from job placements to funding. Compared to peers, Ethics provides deeper philosophical engagement without niche limitations. For philosophy career paths, visit philosophy PhD programs.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| Journal of Philosophy | 2.1 | General Philosophy | Journal of Philosophy, Inc. |
| Philosophy & Public Affairs | 1.8 | Applied Political Ethics | Wiley |
| Mind | 2.5 | Analytic Philosophy | Oxford University Press |
| Ethics | 1.917 | Moral & Political Theory | University of Chicago Press |
This comparison shows Ethics' competitive edge in moral philosophy, with a balanced focus and strong metrics.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
To succeed with Ethics submissions, focus on novel arguments supported by robust analysis. Engage critically with recent literature and avoid overly speculative claims. Seek feedback from colleagues before submitting. Track revisions carefully during review. For broader support, check academic job search resources or CV review services. Persistence and precision are key to publication.