Reason Magazine Makes Coolest Cover Ever



A couple of days ago, I received my June 2004 copy of Reason, a libertarian- leaning magazine that I have subscribed to for many years. Although they recently celebrated their thirtieth anniversary, they've just begun to reach a wider audience as many of their staff writers have become notable authors and talking heads, and they were recently named one of the Top 50 Magazines by the Chicago Tribune. This month, however, they have outdone themselves, as they have made unique personalized covers for all of their 55, 000 subscribers. Using readily available technology, they have an aerial photo of said subscriber's house, a personalized back cover ad, and a note from editor- in- chief Nick Gillespie which tells you your town's median income, age, etc. An example of the entire cover is available here. The accompanying article "Database Nation" by Declan Mc Cullagh about the pros and cons of having all this info at your fingertips is up to the usual high standards of the magazine.

This stunt is the first of its kind, and will probably be remembered for many years to come. It certainly has put Reason on the map, as the New York Times and National Public Radio have done stories about it. Also, as awiggins pointed out, I have a one-of-a-kind piece that will no doubt appreciate in value in the years to come! Isn't it time to stop reading Newsweak and Thyme and get with a real news magazine?

posted by santo26 | 12:52 PM