Write for us
The Better Argument publishes essays, criticism, short fiction, and reported pieces from writers who take ideas seriously. If that sounds like you, we’d like to read your work.
About us
The Better Argument is a print magazine and a community of thinkers published by the Institute for Classical Dialogue. We explore the ideas shaping the modern world — from AI and politics to culture and philosophy — with the conviction that wisdom is especially needed in fast-changing environments.
We publish writers early in their careers alongside established voices. We care less about a résumé than about the life of a sentence and the seriousness of an argument.
Editorial voice
We prize clarity over cleverness and argument over assertion. Our writers draw on the classical tradition without genuflecting to it, and engage contemporary questions without chasing the news cycle.
Most pieces run between 1,500 and 5,000 words. Shorter dispatches and longer essays are welcome when the subject earns the length. We edit closely and collaboratively.
Submissions
Send a complete draft (not a pitch) as a Word document or Google Doc. Include a short cover note telling us who you are and why this piece belongs in The Better Argument. Simultaneous submissions are fine — please let us know if your piece is accepted elsewhere.
We read every submission and try to respond within one to three weeks. If you haven’t heard back after that, a gentle nudge is welcome.
In company of
Aaron Shelsby
Ahmed Abdalla Ahmed Esmail
Bryan Dawson
Selective Reader
Shannon Chamberlain
Kem-Laurin Lubin
Ready when you are
Attach your piece and a short cover note. We'll get back to you within four to six weeks.
Submit your workOr email betterargumentmagazine@gmail.com
