Social Issues Research

Current Issues Research

Use this guide for resources relevant to research about current events, social issues, and modern controversies.

Considerations

When doing research about controversial topics, keep the following things in mind: 

• Who is responsible for the information in your source?
  • If you cannot verify the credibility of the author (author is unknown, you are unsure if it is a reliable source, wikipedia, social media, etc), Verify the information elsewhere. 
  • You can also verify whether or not a source is credible with a quick Google search. Search the name of the author and / or the site to help ensure credibility or potentially spot concerns. 
• You do not have to avoid bias, but you should be aware of it.
  • You may find very credible and useful information in bias sources.
  • HOWEVER, this is only from one point of view. Search elsewhere for more balance in your perspectives. 
• When was the information published?
  • The currency need for your research depends on your topic.
  • Research about issues that are currently unfolding, may need to be very current to be relevant. Sometimes sources from 6 months ago or even 1 month ago may be out of date.
  • But for other sources, information from a few years ago may still be good.
  • Pay close attention to the publication dates when considering your resources.