Sociology Research Guide

Background research can help you:

• narrow down a broad theme into a smaller topic
• learn the basics of your topic
• develop a list of keywords to use when searching for more sources
• develop a research question and/or thesis statement

Starter databases:

• simple, browseable databases meant to help students with background research
• often contain credible reference articles, but can also have viewpoint essays
• a good alternative or supplement to Wikipedia

Best starter databases for Sociology topics:

Opposing Viewpoints Tutorial

• This browseable database contains information on current events and controversial topics.
• A great place to find and refine topic ideas, and read pro and con arguments.
• Watch the video below to learn more:

• The books below are available for a two-week checkout.
• Write down a book's call number to find it upstairs in the book stacks.

Recommended eBooks