Why Researchers Choose Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science for High-Impact Publications
Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science has long been a cornerstone for scholars navigating the complex interplay between faith, ethics, and empirical discovery. Established in 1966 by the Institute on Religion in an Age of Science, this journal fosters rigorous dialogue across theology, philosophy, biology, physics, and social sciences. Its commitment to integrating religious perspectives with scientific methodologies makes it invaluable for researchers seeking to address contemporary issues like bioethics, cosmology, and human evolution through a theological lens.
Publishing in Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science elevates one's academic standing due to its established reputation in interdisciplinary studies. The journal's scope encompasses articles that critically examine how religious traditions inform or challenge scientific paradigms, appealing to theologians, scientists, and philosophers alike. With a focus on original research, review essays, and book discussions, it provides a space for nuanced explorations that resonate globally.
Researchers value Zygon for its editorial rigor and inclusive approach, ensuring diverse voices contribute to the religion-science discourse. Whether probing the implications of quantum mechanics on divine action or ethical dilemmas in genetic engineering, contributors find a receptive audience. The journal's hybrid open access model further amplifies reach, allowing articles to influence policy, education, and interfaith initiatives.
For those in theology or related fields, Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science submission process is straightforward yet thorough, emphasizing clarity and interdisciplinary relevance. Success here can lead to citations in high-profile works and invitations to conferences. To explore opportunities, consider browsing theology academic jobs or checking the academic calendar for submission deadlines. Start your journey toward impactful publication today.
Overview & History
Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science was founded in 1966 to promote constructive engagement between religious thought and scientific knowledge. Published quarterly by Wiley on behalf of the Institute on Religion in an Age of Science, it has evolved into a vital resource for interdisciplinary scholarship. Over the decades, Zygon has featured seminal works by thinkers like Ian Barbour and Philip Hefner, shaping debates on topics from environmental theology to neuroscience and spirituality.
The journal's history reflects broader cultural shifts, responding to challenges posed by Darwinian evolution, relativity, and modern biotechnology. Today, it continues to thrive with a global readership, maintaining its mission to humanize science through religious insights while grounding faith in empirical evidence. This enduring legacy positions Zygon as a trusted venue for forward-thinking research.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science welcomes submissions that bridge religion and science across various domains. Its broad scope includes theological interpretations of scientific advancements, philosophical analyses of faith-science tensions, and empirical studies on religious practices in scientific contexts.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Theology | Explorations of religious doctrines in light of scientific theories, such as creationism versus evolution. |
| Philosophy | Discussions on epistemology, metaphysics, and ethics at the religion-science nexus. |
| Biology | Bioethics, human origins, and the role of religion in ecological and medical sciences. |
| Physics | Cosmology, quantum mechanics, and implications for concepts of divinity and reality. |
| Social Sciences | Sociology of religion, psychology of belief, and cultural impacts of scientific paradigms. |
These disciplines ensure Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science remains a hub for multifaceted inquiries, encouraging cross-pollination of ideas.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor | 0.8 (2023) | From Clarivate Journal Citation Reports. |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 1.0 | Reflects sustained influence in the field. |
| CiteScore | 1.2 (Scopus) | Measures broader citation impact. |
| h-Index | 45 | Indicates highly cited articles over time. |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed | Selective process ensures quality. |
These metrics highlight Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science impact factor as a marker of reliability for researchers aiming for credible outlets.
Indexing and Abstracting
Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science is indexed in major databases, enhancing visibility and accessibility. It appears in Web of Science (Arts & Humanities Citation Index and Science Citation Index Expanded), Scopus, ATLA Religion Database, and Philosopher's Index. This coverage ensures articles reach theologians, scientists, and interdisciplinary scholars worldwide. Researchers can access abstracts via these platforms, with full texts available through Wiley Online Library or institutional subscriptions.
- Web of Science: Core collection for citation tracking.
- Scopus: Comprehensive abstracting for global reach.
- DOAJ: Not listed, as it's hybrid rather than fully open access.
Publication Model and Fees
As a hybrid journal, Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science offers traditional subscription-based access alongside open access options. Authors can publish open access by paying an Article Publication Charge (APC) of $3,200 (as of 2024), waivable for certain institutions. Subscription access is provided through Wiley, with no fees for non-OA submissions. This model balances wide dissemination with financial sustainability, allowing researchers to choose based on funding availability. Sherpa/RoMEO classifies it as green for self-archiving, supporting broader sharing.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submitting to Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science involves an online portal via ScholarOne Manuscripts on Wiley's site. Manuscripts should be 6,000–8,000 words, double-spaced, with abstracts under 150 words. Guidelines emphasize interdisciplinary relevance, clear methodology, and respectful engagement across viewpoints. Peer review typically takes 3–6 months, focusing on originality and scholarly depth. Authors must disclose conflicts and adhere to ethical standards. For detailed Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science submission tips, visit the official homepage.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial board of Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science comprises distinguished scholars from diverse fields. Editor-in-Chief Willem B. Drees, a professor of philosophy of religion at Leiden University, oversees a team including experts in theology (e.g., from Harvard Divinity School), physics (e.g., from Caltech), and biology (e.g., from Oxford). This international board ensures balanced perspectives, with members from the US, Europe, and Asia. Their expertise guides the journal toward innovative religion-science integrations.
Why Publish in Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science?
Publishing in Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science offers unique benefits for career advancement. Its interdisciplinary focus attracts citations from theology, science, and philosophy journals, boosting h-index and funding prospects. The journal's prestige aids tenure portfolios, especially in religious studies departments. Open access options increase downloads, fostering collaborations. Moreover, it connects authors to networks like the Institute on Religion in an Age of Science. For theology researchers, this venue signifies thoughtful engagement with modernity. Explore related opportunities via Rate My Professor or philosophy academic jobs.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science | 0.8 | Interdisciplinary religion-science dialogue | Wiley |
| Religion and Science (Theology and Science) | 0.3 | Theological responses to science | Taylor & Francis |
| Zygote | 1.5 | Biology with ethical/religious angles | Cambridge |
| Journal of Religion and Health | 1.2 | Health sciences and spirituality | Springer |
| Science, Religion & Culture | Not ranked | Cultural religion-science intersections | Independent |
This comparison underscores Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science as a leader in balanced, high-impact interdisciplinary work.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
To succeed with Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science submission, tailor your abstract to highlight religion-science synergies. Use clear, jargon-free language accessible to non-specialists. Incorporate diverse sources, including empirical data and theological texts. Revise based on feedback, ensuring arguments are robust yet irenic. Track deadlines via the academic calendar. Network through religious studies jobs listings. Finally, proofread meticulously to meet Wiley's standards.