Tertiärkällor

Tertiärkällor, often translated as tertiary sources, are information sources that compile and summarize information from secondary sources. They do not present original research or analysis but rather offer a broad overview of a topic. Examples of tertiary sources include encyclopedias, dictionaries, textbooks, and fact books. Their primary purpose is to provide introductory information and direct users to more in-depth primary and secondary sources.

The value of tertiary sources lies in their accessibility and convenience. They are typically easy to understand and can quickly provide a general grasp of a subject. However, their reliability can vary. Encyclopedias and dictionaries, when reputable, are generally considered reliable for factual information, but they may lack the nuance and critical depth found in secondary sources. Textbooks, while intended to be comprehensive, can sometimes present information with a specific pedagogical slant or may become outdated over time.

When conducting research, tertiary sources are often used in the initial stages to gain background knowledge, identify key terms, and discover relevant primary and secondary sources. It is generally advised not to cite tertiary sources as the sole basis for academic arguments, as they represent a distillation of other people's work rather than direct engagement with original material. Their role is primarily introductory and supportive in the research process.