Smithsonian Magazine Review

Smithsonian is a magazine that is affiliated with the Smithsonian institution, the world's largest museum complex and research organization. This magazine is published monthly with a circulation exceeding two million, making it one of America's 50 most popular magazines.

Magazine Commentary:

Smithsonian is a magazine for more intellectual types who enjoy finding out new things about art, history, science, etc. The name "Smithsonian" usually conjures up images of history and greatness, thanks to the Smithsonian institution in Washington, D.C. This magazine is owned and administered by the same folks who operate the museums. When you subscribe to Smithsonian, you get more than just a magazine. You also become a member of the Smithsonian, which includes a membership card and discounts on visits to the Smithsonian.

People who purchase/read Smithsonian are usually those who enjoy topics like history, science, and world geography. Smithsonian combines these topics into each issue, with an occasional splash of current events, especially if they relate in some way to science, health, or conservation. The monthly columns and articles, which form the bulk of the magazine, are more than simple history or science refreshers. Smithsonian takes an intellectual angle on issues and historical events, presenting sides to a story that many people might never have considered before.

If I had to choose my favorite areas of Smithsonian, they would be the Indelible Images department and the People File, as well as the monthly articles that are not part of any regular department. It's interesting to read about these historical events and these interesting individuals who have made unusual contributions to science, health, etc., yet remain relatively unknown. And I really enjoy the debate that many of the articles are likely to spark. The writers sometimes present just a few facts, but other times they create a debate by bringing a fresh perspective to the table regarding an important historic event or world concern. This magazine gets your brain cells moving; encouraging readers to step back and rethink the positions that have held for so long.

Bottom Line Viewpoint:

Smithsonian makes a great gift for those who like to read about the topics of history, science, and excursions to lesser- known places. It's like a combination of Popular Science, National Geographic, and Scientific American, all rolled up into one. It's an excellent magazine, with a name that commands respect.