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Literature Search

A literature search is a systematic process of finding and evaluating sources relevant to a research topic. Its purpose is to map what has already been published on the topic, assess the quality of those publications, identify the languages in which they are available, and locate where they can be found. This helps avoid unnecessary duplication of research, uncover important connections, and reveal potential gaps in existing knowledge.

In both academia and professional practice, a literature search is the foundation of any serious work. Without it, it is impossible to define a topic properly, formulate a research question, or build arguments based on relevant sources.

A well-conducted literature search saves time, reduces the risk of errors, and improves the quality of decision-making. However, this is a skill that cannot be mastered without practice.

1 Information Bubbles

The term filter bubble was introduced around 2010 by Eli Pariser. It refers to the personalization of results based on a user’s previous online behaviour. The aim of such algorithms is to offer content that the user is likely to find interesting.

However, this tailoring means that we mostly see information and types of content that confirm our existing opinions, interests, or attitudes. Opposing or entirely new perspectives are pushed into the background or do not reach us at all. This effect is amplified in environments such as social media or AI-powered chat assistants.

When we are constantly exposed only to familiar viewpoints, we end up in what is known as an echo chamber. In such an environment, we hear the “echo” of what we already know over and over again, gradually distorting our view of the world.

Science and knowledge in general work in exactly the opposite way: they thrive on the unknown, on critical questioning, and on the search for new paths. Information bubbles are therefore not only undesirable in research, but they can also undermine the very foundations of knowledge.

How can we protect ourselves from bubbles? A few simple strategies can help:

  • actively seek out different perspectives and approaches,
  • use and combine different types of search engines and sources,
  • search in multiple languages.

2 Search Language


3 Web Search Engines


4 Web Archives


5 Specialised Search Tools


6 Evaluating Search Results


7 Full Texts


8 Generative Artificial Intelligence