Discover (2-year)

As a scientist/educator, I enjoy reading about current science being done in all fields, whether neuroscience or astronomy. We get so specialized in our fields sometimes, we forget about the other sciences which we are not personally involved in. This is one of the better science journals for laypeople who have limited background in most sciences. It's great for me, and I have a large background in most sciences. But so much happens in all areas of scientific endeavor that it is impossible to keep up with. So a magazine like Discover helps to close the gap on my personal ignorance in other areas of science besides neuroscience.

Discover is by the same people running Discovery Channel. Their information is good, they do the research, and they often broach difficult and contrary science concepts which may not be mainstream yet. Their writers and editors do an excellent job. My own personal favorite article each month is Vital Signs, from doctors about medical cases that may be strange or that need to be brought to the attention of the public. I always read that first.

This is a good magazine for high school students to have access to in addition to the regular science textbooks. The type of information given often makes science more accessible for high school students. They can see why someone would choose to go into particular fields of science, and why research is needed.

I do not always agree with the information given. Too many times, it seems that Discover and its editors promote ideas or new medical concepts/technology which has not been proven. As always, lay readers should be sure to get a variety of inputs and information, as well as second opinions before accepting what is said by Discover or any other source. An example of this is the retinal implant spoken about in 2001. Readers should not go asking their physicians about such technology for themselves, but should do as much research as possible prior to making a decision on experimental procedures.

Karen SAdler,

Science Education,

University of Pittsburgh

Yes, the strongest appeal that this magazine has is its readability. The articles, however diverse they are, are not that hard to understand at all. I believe that even younger readers could read them without feeling offended and snobbed by the writing style. This is because Discover is intended for the general public. People who like a beefier telling of scientific issues should read Scientific American instead. But please note: I am not saying that Discover is kid-stuff. It is not.

Points of interest:

1.) In every issue, there is this Neuroquest, a very interesting one page "exploration of the inner workings of the human brain."

2.) The mag also offers Bogglers, a set of brain-teasers/puzzles to give those gray cells something to work on.

3.) And, Science Surfing, do I have to tell you what this is??

So far, all the Discover issues that I have have 92 pages, of which 17-18 pages were devoted to ads.

Buy Discover (2-year) Now

For years Discover was the best magazine for the lay person or even scientists who wanted to keep track of the trends in other fields of science. Now with a new publisher it has become almost worthless. Very superficial articles are mixed with over blown headlines and poor science. After buying Discover since it's very inception I find it sad what has happened to this magazine. Check the dates and notice the glowing reviews for the old magazine but pay attention to the negative ones from the last 6 months.

Read Best Reviews of Discover (2-year) Here

Edit:

I encourage people to give this magazine a second chance, four years later. I haven't checked up on it in that time, but some indicate that the quality has gone up significantly since Discover embarked on its new look. -06/28/10

Want Discover (2-year) Discount?

(2008 HOLIDAY TEAM)Discover is a fun magazine, and a much easier read than Scientific American. Mind you, it does not have the density of it's fellow publication, but I seem to pick Discover up more often lying around the house.

A nice broad range of categories are covered by Discover, with an eye for "topical science." The editors are good at identifying scientific trends (like cloning), and are quick to get articles out. This is a great benefit for those who want to stay knowledgeable about science, but do not have the time to invest in deep research.

As with any science magazine, fantastic pictures fill the pages. Charts and images are well-used to illustrate and clarify unfamiliar topics. A well put-together magazine.

Save 75% Off