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Background Information

Locate Background Information to get a general overview of a topic

Databases

The University of Akron Libraries have several research databases that specialize in coverage of "hot topics" and current events. These tools provide both introductory and comprehensive looks into a variety issues. They are especially useful as a tool to learn about different viewpoints surrounding your topic

 

Searching Websites

A simple Google search can yield an enormous number of results worthy of consideration for background information. Many will provide basic overviews of a topic or discuss popular opinion on a current issue. Look for these types of sources in your results list:

  • Organizations' (.org) websites will often give basic overviews of issues and causes they represent. Look for official organizations, and be careful of bias found on some sites.
  • Government agencies (.gov) websites can offer overviews of topics that they are involved in
  • Magazine and newspaper websites will generally provide some (or all) of their content for free
  • Some educational (.edu) sites, such as those sponsored by a college's department, will provide well-researched and documented information about an issue and may act as a directory to other quality sources

ProCon Website

 

ProCon.org is nonprofit nonpartisan public charity, provides professionally-researched pro, con, and related information on more than 50 controversial issues from gun control and death penalty to illegal immigration and alternative energy.