Skip to Main Content

Sociology Literature Reviews

What is a Literature Review?

A literature review provides an overview of previously published research on a specific topic or subject. It critically evaluates, classifies, and compares what has already been published on a particular topic. A literature review is not merely a summary of another scholar's articles or books:

  • It allows the author to synthesize and place into context the research and scholarly literature relevant to the topic.
  • It helps map the different approaches to a given question and reveal patterns.  
  • It forms the foundation for the author’s subsequent research and justifies the significance of the new investigation.

What types of resources should be used for a literature review?

A literature review should be written using "credible" academic sources of information. This means using peer-reviewed, scholarly articles, books and other publications in your subject area. You should avoid using popular magazines, unpublished works, blogs or other resources deemed non-scholarly.

Where should I start searching for information?

The quickest way to start your literature review research is through Library Search on the homepage, or the electronically available databases on our website. 

Abby Juda

Profile Photo
Abby Juda
Contact:
607-274-3889