The Scots Magazine was the first magazine published in Scotland; it was modeled after the London magazines, which were monthly summaries of news, politics and literature.

Other reasons for publication were the desire to cater to Scottish interests and to give an opportunity for the free expressing of opinions.

In Feb 1821 there appeared an article entitled 'The Genius of the Scots Magazine to the Reader' [paraphrased]: Among this load of vapid essays and puerile poetry, many gems are to be found which redeem my character from the unfounded charge of hopeless and persevering stupidity.