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PHIL 1301 - Bell: Before you start your research

What is philosophy?

Philosophy is not a theory but an activity.

- Ludwig Wittgenstein

The Lee College Library has many resources related to philosophy.  Use OneSearch to search many databases at one time to find electronic articles and resources. If you're not finding what you're looking for or you're finding too much, try some of the Philosophy Databases and Library Links for philosophy-specific resources.  You can also look through the Selected Resources box to find related books, videos, and external websites.

Not finding what you need?  Have questions?  Use the "Ask a Lee Librarian" box to contact us!

Using Lee College Library resources off-campus

If you want to use Lee College Library electronic resources off-campus, you will be prompted for a login and password. Use your Lee College ID and password.

How do you know what kind of sources to look for?

Ask yourself these questions before you start your research:

  • Do I know enough about my topic to choose meaningful search terms?
    • ​Reference books such as encyclopedias are useful sources for learning basics about a topic before starting your research.
  • Does it matter how old your sources are?  
    • Should you use sources dating from the beginning of time to the present? 
    • Do you only want the most current information?
  • How specific is your topic? 
    • ​Are you giving a broad overview of the topic?
    • Do you need in-depth research on the topic?
  • Who counts as a credible writer on this topic?
    • Does the writer need to be an expert in the field?  What kind of credentials will prove that this person is an expert?
    • Is it okay for the writer to be a non-expert who cites his/her sources well?

Before You Start: Find Background Information on Your Topic

These sources will provide an overview of the your topic.  The will help you learn enough about your topic to ask an intelligent research question.  

Note:  These sources may or many not be acceptable to use as one of your main sources for your research paper.  You will have to assess whether or not they are written on a high enough level.  

Sometimes you have to do "pre-research" so you know enough about your topic to do your class research.

 

Summer 2024 Library Service

All of the library's electronic resources, including articles, e-books and streaming video, continue to be available to Lee College students and employees 24/7. 

  • Library website: www.lee.edu/library
  • When accessing resources off-campus, you will be asked for a user name and password.  The user name will be your id number and you may need to be set or reset your password if you have not logged in in a while.

May Mini Hours:

  • M-Th: 7:30 AM - 7:00 PM
  • Fr: 7:30 AM - 12:30 PM
  • Sa: Closed
  • Su : Closed

Summer Closures:

  • Mon, May 31st (Memorial Day)
  • Wed, June 19th (Juneteenth)
  • Thurs, July 4th (Independence Day)

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