My Placement with The Philosopher
By Maryam Aghdami, CHASE funded doctoral researcher at SOAS University of London
It all began with a Public Writing workshop I attended in spring 2023, hosted by The Philosopher. At the time, I was simply an audience member—a philosophy student and researcher intrigued by the journal. The Philosopher is the journal of the Philosophical Society of England, and it holds the distinction of being the UK’s longest-running public philosophy magazine, established in 1923. Last year, it celebrated its centenary—a milestone that underscored its enduring influence.
Initially, I assumed The Philosopher was supported by a large team, given its prolific output. Beyond the magazine, it organises weekly online events featuring conversations with leading thinkers, as well as workshops, reading groups, and public philosophy classes that attract a global audience. However, I soon discovered that The Philosopher is run entirely by volunteers and relies on the generosity of Patreon members and subscribers.
When a call for volunteers was announced, I saw an opportunity to get more involved with a publication I deeply admired. Combining my background in journalism with my passion for philosophy felt like a natural fit, particularly as a doctoral researcher in the field. Around the same time, I learned about the CHASE placement scheme, which allows students to propose placements with organisations of their choice, extending their studentship by up to six months. The idea of tailoring my placement to align with my interests felt like a perfect match, and I began drafting my proposal.
By October 2023, after completing the necessary paperwork, I joined The Philosopher as an Assistant Editor. My role was to support the Editor-in-Chief with a variety of tasks, ranging from administrative duties like handling communications, organising editorial meetings, and taking minutes, to more creative responsibilities such as planning event series, editing print issues, and managing social media platforms. This multifaceted role allowed me to gain a comprehensive understanding of the publishing process.
During my placement, I contributed to editing two print issues, organising four seasons of online events, and hosting three in-person events in central London. I was soon invited to join the Management Team, and by the end of my placement, I had been promoted to Managing Editor. This progression not only deepened my practical skills but also gave me insight into team leadership and decision-making in a fast-paced, creative environment.
Reflecting on this experience, I can see how it has enriched my PhD research and personal development. My dissertation focuses on the intersections of social epistemology and public discourse, and working with The Philosopher gave me first-hand exposure to how philosophical ideas are communicated to diverse audiences. It also challenged me to balance my academic commitments with the dynamic demands of the role—an invaluable skill for future career paths.
For students considering a placement, I wholeheartedly recommend tailoring your proposal to align with your interests and ambitions. The Philosopher is currently seeking volunteers, and I encourage CHASE students, particularly those passionate about philosophy, humanities, or the social sciences, to seize this opportunity.
This placement has been transformative, offering a rare chance to bridge academic philosophy with public engagement. If you’re eager to make philosophy accessible and meaningful to a wider audience, The Philosopher could be the perfect place for you.