Secondary source

Definition

A secondary source is a document or recording that relates or discusses information originally presented elsewhere, often providing analysis, interpretation, or commentary on primary sources. These sources are typically created after the event or period in question and can include books, articles, documentaries, and reviews. They are valuable for understanding the context and implications of primary data.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Secondary sources often interpret or analyze primary sources to provide a broader understanding of a subject or event.
2. Examples of secondary sources include scholarly articles, biographies, critiques, and documentaries that analyze historical events.
3. While secondary sources are useful for context, they may also introduce biases based on the author's perspective or interpretation.
4. Researchers often use secondary sources to support their arguments or provide background information when discussing primary data.
5. It's essential to evaluate the credibility and reliability of secondary sources, as the accuracy of their information can vary widely.

Review Questions

• How do secondary sources enhance our understanding of historical events compared to primary sources?
  • Secondary sources enhance our understanding of historical events by providing analysis and context that primary sources alone may not offer. They synthesize information from various primary documents, helping to interpret the significance of those events in a broader context. By examining multiple perspectives and interpretations presented in secondary sources, we can gain a more nuanced understanding of complex issues and trends in history.
• In what ways can biases in secondary sources affect research outcomes?
  • Biases in secondary sources can significantly affect research outcomes by shaping how events or subjects are perceived. If an author has a particular agenda or viewpoint, it can influence their interpretation and presentation of information. This bias may lead researchers to draw conclusions based on skewed data or incomplete analyses, potentially misrepresenting historical facts or perspectives. Therefore, it's crucial for researchers to critically evaluate secondary sources for bias before relying on them.
• Evaluate the role of secondary sources in constructing a documentary narrative and how they influence audience perception.
  • Secondary sources play a vital role in constructing a documentary narrative by providing context, expert analysis, and varying viewpoints that shape how a story is told. They help filmmakers interpret primary materials and provide background information that can deepen audience understanding. By integrating these analyses into the narrative, documentarians can influence audience perception by highlighting specific themes or interpretations. This power comes with responsibility; thus, careful selection and critical evaluation of secondary sources are essential to present an accurate and engaging narrative.

Related terms

primary source: An original document or firsthand account created at the time of an event, such as letters, photographs, or official records.

tertiary source: A resource that compiles and summarizes information from primary and secondary sources, such as encyclopedias and textbooks.

meta-analysis: A statistical technique that combines the results of multiple studies to identify patterns, correlations, or overall effects.