New Scientist: A History of Science Journalism and Evolution
Since its inception in the mid-20th century, New Scientist has served as a vital bridge between complex academic research and the curious public. By focusing on the practical applications of science and the rapid advancement of technology, the publication has evolved from a modest weekly magazine into a global brand known for its accessibility and editorial independence.
Key Facts
- Founded: November 22, 1956, by Tom Margerison, Max Raison, and Nicholas Harrison.
- Original Price: One shilling (approximately £1.08 in 2025).
- Current Owner: Daily Mail and General Trust (DMGT), acquired in March 2021 for £70 million.
- Global Reach: Includes a dedicated Dutch edition launched in June 2015.
- Editorial Focus: Applications of science, technology, and the debunking of pseudoscience.
The Founding and Early Years
The magazine debuted as The New Scientist on November 22, 1956. In its earliest days, the publication mirrored academic standards, utilizing sequential page numbering across quarterly volumes rather than restarting at page one for each issue. The title was simplified to New Scientist in 1961.
From the start, the magazine prioritized the intersection of science and real-world utility. Its very first issue featured a piece on the future of nuclear power in the UK, titled "Where next from Calder Hall?" This commitment to technology continued into 1964 with the introduction of a dedicated "Science in British Industry" section.
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Ownership Transitions and Corporate Evolution
The ownership of New Scientist has shifted through several major corporate entities over the decades. In 1970, the Reed Group (later Reed Elsevier) acquired the magazine following a merger with IPC Magazines. While Reed eventually sold most of its consumer titles to TI Media, it retained New Scientist.
In April 2017, the RELX Group (formerly Reed Elsevier) sold the publication to Kingston Acquisitions, a group formed by Sir Bernard Gray, Louise Rogers, and Matthew O'Sullivan. This group subsequently renamed itself New Scientist Ltd.
The most recent major transition occurred in March 2021, when the Daily Mail and General Trust (DMGT) purchased the magazine for £70 million. DMGT provided guarantees regarding editorial independence, ruling out staff reductions and the sharing of editorial content. By December 2021, New Scientist and the daily i newspaper were moved into a new company division called Harmsworth Media.
Editorial Style and Cultural Impact
New Scientist has long balanced rigorous reporting with light-hearted commentary. For decades, the magazine featured cartoons from artists like Mike Peyton and David Austin, as well as the Grimbledon Down comic strip by Bill Tidy from 1970 to 1994.
One of the most distinctive features was the Ariadne pages, which showcased the humorous and impractical inventions of the fictitious inventor Daedalus and the DREADCO corporation. These contributions highlighted the "lighter side" of technology before Daedalus eventually moved to Nature.
International Expansion
While many mainstream magazines faced declining readership, New Scientist maintained a resilient international presence. In the first half of 2013, international circulation averaged 125,172. By 2014, despite a slight dip in UK sales, strong international demand pushed total circulation to 129,585.
This global growth led to the June 2015 launch of a Dutch edition. Published by Veen Media, this edition replaced Natuurwetenschap & Techniek (NWT). While it primarily translates English content, it also produces original articles focusing on research within Belgium and the Netherlands.
Modern Format and Design
The magazine's structure has evolved to meet the needs of modern readers. Until May 2019, the publication was organized into sections including Leader, News (Upfront), Technology, Opinion, Features, CultureLab, Feedback, The Last Word, and Jobs & Careers.
A significant redesign was introduced on May 4, 2019 (Issue 3228), aimed at creating a "fresher, brighter feel." This update introduced a "Views" section for commentary and reviews, as well as regular columnists. The "Back Pages" now house the long-standing Feedback and The Last Word sections, alongside puzzles and Q&A.
| Era/Event | Key Change/Detail | Date/Period |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation | Launched as The New Scientist | 1956 |
| Visual Shift | Front cover illustrations introduced | 1965 |
| Corporate Shift | Acquired by Reed Group | 1970 |
| Ownership Change | Sold to Kingston Acquisitions | 2017 |
| Current Ownership | Acquired by DMGT for £70 million | 2021 |
| Design Update | Introduction of "Views" and "Back Pages" | 2019 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded New Scientist?
The magazine was founded by Tom Margerison, Max Raison, and Nicholas Harrison, with the first issue appearing on November 22, 1956.
How much did the first issue cost?
The first issue was priced at one shilling, which is equivalent to approximately £1.08 in 2025.
Who currently owns the magazine?
New Scientist is owned by the Daily Mail and General Trust (DMGT) and operates within the Harmsworth Media division.
What is the purpose of the "Last Word" section?
The Last Word is a Q&A section where readers ask and answer scientific and technical questions; some of these contributions have been compiled into books.
Does New Scientist have international editions?
Yes, a Dutch edition was launched in June 2015 by Veen Media, focusing on translations of the English edition and original research from the Netherlands and Belgium.