Isis: An International Review Devoted to the History of Science and Its Cultural Influences – History Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose Isis: An International Review Devoted to the History of Science and Its Cultural Influences for High-Impact Publications

Isis: An International Review Devoted to the History of Science and Its Cultural Influences stands as a cornerstone in the field of history, particularly for scholars examining the evolution of scientific thought and its broader cultural ramifications. Established in 1912 by the History of Science Society, this quarterly publication has evolved into a vital resource for interdisciplinary research that bridges history, science, and culture. With a focus on the historical development of scientific ideas, practices, and institutions, Isis provides a platform for in-depth analyses that illuminate how science shapes and is shaped by societal contexts. Researchers value its rigorous peer-review process, which ensures that published works contribute meaningfully to ongoing scholarly conversations.

The journal's prestige is underscored by its long-standing reputation and inclusion in major indexing services, making it a preferred choice for academics seeking visibility in the history of science domain. Isis: An International Review Devoted to the History of Science and Its Cultural Influences impact factor of 0.556 reflects its steady influence, particularly in niche areas where historical perspectives inform contemporary scientific debates. For those considering publish in Isis: An International Review Devoted to the History of Science and Its Cultural Influences, the journal emphasizes original research articles, review essays, and book reviews that engage with global histories of science from antiquity to the present.

Its commitment to open access elements through institutional subscriptions enhances accessibility, allowing a wide audience to engage with cutting-edge scholarship. Whether exploring the cultural influences on scientific discovery or the historical contexts of technological advancement, Isis fosters critical discourse that resonates across disciplines. As part of the University of Chicago Press portfolio, it benefits from robust editorial support and wide dissemination. For researchers aiming to elevate their work, submitting to this journal offers opportunities for citation and collaboration in a respected academic network. To explore related career opportunities in history and science studies, visit our history academic jobs section.

Overview & History

Isis: An International Review Devoted to the History of Science and Its Cultural Influences was founded in 1912 by George Sarton, a pioneering historian of science, under the auspices of the History of Science Society. Initially published by the University of Chicago Press, it has maintained a quarterly schedule, releasing four issues per year. The journal's name draws from the Egyptian goddess of knowledge, symbolizing the quest for understanding in science's historical narrative. Over the decades, Isis has chronicled pivotal moments in scientific history, from the Renaissance to modern genomics, always emphasizing cultural intersections.

Key milestones include its role in post-World War II science policy discussions and its adaptation to digital humanities in recent volumes. Today, it serves over 4,000 subscribers worldwide, with digital archives accessible via JSTOR and the publisher's platform. This enduring legacy positions Isis as an essential archive for historians tracking the interplay between science and society.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

Isis encompasses a broad yet focused scope, prioritizing the history of science and its cultural dimensions. It welcomes submissions on topics ranging from ancient scientific traditions to contemporary bioethics, always through a historical lens. The journal encourages interdisciplinary approaches that integrate history with philosophy, sociology, and anthropology of science.

These disciplines ensure Isis remains relevant for researchers in primary discipline of history while extending to allied fields.

Key Journal Metrics

These metrics highlight Isis: An International Review Devoted to the History of Science and Its Cultural Influences' solid standing in humanities journals, where influence is measured by depth rather than volume.

Indexing and Abstracting

Isis is indexed in prestigious databases, ensuring global discoverability. It appears in Arts & Humanities Citation Index (Clarivate), Scopus, and Historical Abstracts. Additional coverage includes MLA International Bibliography and EBSCO's Academic Search Complete. For open access visibility, it's listed in DOAJ-eligible categories, though primarily subscription-based. Researchers can access abstracts via the official journal homepage and full texts through institutional logins or JSTOR.

Publication Model and Fees

Isis operates on a hybrid model, with subscription access as the primary route and optional open access for accepted articles via the University of Chicago Press's Chicago Open Access initiative. There are no mandatory article processing charges (APCs) for standard publication; authors from certain institutions may qualify for fee waivers. Page charges are not imposed, making it accessible for humanities scholars. Copyright is retained by authors under a Creative Commons license for OA articles. Review the policy at Sherpa/RoMEO.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions to Isis are handled through the Editorial Manager system on the University of Chicago Press website. Authors must prepare manuscripts in Chicago style, double-spaced, up to 10,000 words, with abstracts and keywords. Originality is verified via plagiarism checks. The process involves initial editorial screening, followed by double-anonymous peer review, typically taking 3-6 months. Guidelines emphasize clear historical arguments and engagement with primary sources. Access the portal at submission guidelines. For tips on academic publishing, check our publishing advice.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial team, led by Editor-in-Chief H. Floris Cohen from Rice University, includes experts from leading institutions like Harvard, Oxford, and the Max Planck Institute. Associate editors specialize in regional histories (e.g., Asian science) and thematic areas (e.g., gender in science). This diverse board ensures balanced, international perspectives. Board members are appointed for renewable terms, bringing decades of experience in Isis: An International Review Devoted to the History of Science and Its Cultural Influences submission evaluations.

Why Publish in Isis: An International Review Devoted to the History of Science and Its Cultural Influences?

Publishing in Isis elevates a researcher's profile due to its targeted audience of historians and scientists. The journal's archival stability means articles remain cited for years, aiding tenure and grant applications. Its interdisciplinary appeal broadens impact beyond history, reaching science studies programs. With a focus on cultural influences, it attracts submissions that challenge conventional narratives, fostering innovative scholarship. Researchers benefit from detailed reviewer feedback, enhancing future work. For career advancement, see history faculty positions.

Comparison with Similar Journals

Isis distinguishes itself with its cultural emphasis, offering a unique niche among peers.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

• Align your abstract with the journal's historical-cultural scope to pass initial review.
• Use primary sources and engage recent Isis articles for context.
• Keep revisions concise; address all reviewer comments systematically.
• Network via History of Science Society events for pre-submission feedback.
• Track your professor ratings and align with academic calendars using our academic calendar for deadlines.

These strategies increase chances of acceptance in this competitive venue.