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Distinguishing Scholarly from Non-Scholarly Periodicals: Definitions

A Checklist of Criteria

Webster's Third International Dictionary defines "scholarly" as:

  1. concerned with academic study, especially research,

  2. exhibiting the methods and attitudes of a scholar, and

  3. having the manner and appearance of a scholar.

It defines "professional" as:

  1. relating to a profession,

  2. conforming to the technical and ethical standards of a profession.

      "Substantive" is defined as "having a solid base, being substantive."

      "Popular" means "fit for, or reflecting the taste and intelligence of the people at large."

Realizing that none of the distinctions made between periodicals is clear-cut, you may distinguish among the three types by applying, in general, the criteria listed on the following pages of this guide.

Source of Content

Used with the permission of:

Research & Learning Services
Olin Library
Cornell University Library
Ithica, NY, USA