What do you understand by the term “secondary sources of information”? List their different types and give one example of each type.

Secondary Sources of Information

Secondary sources of information are sources that interpret or analyze primary sources of information. They are created after the fact and are often used to provide context, analysis, or commentary on a topic. Secondary sources can be valuable for researchers as they offer different perspectives and interpretations of primary sources.

Types of Secondary Sources:

1. Books: Books that provide analysis, criticism, or commentary on a particular topic are considered secondary sources. For example, a history textbook that discusses the causes of World War II.

2. Journal Articles: Academic journal articles that review, analyze, or synthesize research findings are secondary sources. For example, a review article in a psychology journal that examines the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy.

3. Review Articles: Review articles summarize and analyze existing research on a particular topic. They provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge in a field. For example, a review article in a medical journal that summarizes studies on the efficacy of a particular drug.

4. Encyclopedias: Encyclopedias provide summaries and explanations of topics and are considered secondary sources. For example, an entry in an encyclopedia that provides an overview of the French Revolution.

5. Databases: Databases that compile and organize information from various sources are considered secondary sources. For example, a database that aggregates research studies on climate change.

6. Websites: Websites that provide analysis, commentary, or summaries of events or topics are considered secondary sources. For example, a news website that provides analysis of political developments.

Example:

• Book: "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald – This novel is a secondary source as it provides commentary on the American Dream and the Jazz Age.
• Journal Article: "The Effects of Climate Change on Biodiversity" – This article is a secondary source as it reviews and analyzes existing research on the impact of climate change on biodiversity.
• Review Article: "Advances in Cancer Treatment: A Review" – This review article is a secondary source as it summarizes and analyzes recent advancements in cancer treatment.
• Encyclopedia: Encyclopedia Britannica – This encyclopedia is a secondary source as it provides summaries and explanations of various topics.
• Database: JSTOR – This database is a secondary source as it compiles and organizes research articles from various academic journals.
• Website: The New York Times Opinion Section – This website is a secondary source as it provides commentary and analysis on current events and issues.

In conclusion, secondary sources of information provide valuable context, analysis, and interpretation of primary sources, making them essential for research and scholarship.