Since its inception in 1940, the Journal of the History of Ideas (JHI) has served as a medium for the publication of research in intellectual history that is of common interest to scholars and students in a wide range of fields. It is committed to encouraging diversity in regional coverage, chronological range, and methodological approaches. JHI defines intellectual history expansively and ecumenically, including the histories of philosophy, of literature and the arts, of the natural and social sciences, of religion, and of political thought. It also encourages scholarship at the intersections of cultural and intellectual history -- for example, the history of the book and of visual culture.

The University of Pennsylvania Press exists to publish meritorious works that advance scholarly research and educational objectives. The chief task of the staff of the Press is to continue building a publishing program that is influential and innovative, a program that addresses the needs of scholars, teachers, students, professionals, and the broader community of readers.