Britannica Sources used in this answer

What role did Herbert Spencer have at The Economist?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Portrait of British philosopher Herbert Spencer, shown with a receding hairline, long sideburns, and formal attire. — Herbert Spencer Herbert Spencer.

In 1848, the British philosopher Herbert Spencer became a subeditor for The Economist. He held this position for five years, eventually resigning in 1853 after receiving a legacy from his uncle.1