In 1665 Henry Oldenberg launched the world’s first scholarly journal. The purpose
of Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society was “to allow scientists to impart their
knowledge to one another and contribute what they can to the grand design of improving
natural knowledge and perfecting all philosophical arts and science.” Three hundred and
fifty years later we would still recognise the key elements of his creation: the promotion of
sound science through peer review, the recognition of scientists and the creation of a permanent
record of important ideas and research. Education & Self Development is a ‘traditional’
journal – as are most of the well-established scholarly journals around the world.