Religion Courses & Research

Religion Websites Tips and Tricks

If you do a general Google search (topic only):

• Choose result related to established entities such as seminaries, theological/academic presses, denominations, etc
• Avoid generic websites that cover all types of religion unless you are comparing across traditions.
  • These types of websites tend to be more like encyclopedia articles rather than providing you with more in-depth information.

If you do a more specific Google search (topic plus something else), try this:

• Topic + denomination you are interested in, such as ecotheology and ELCA
• Topic + seminary or other entity you are interested in

Remember the 3 Evaluation Questions!

Answer the three evaluation questions for any source you use, including websites!

• What is it: What is the source type and author credibility?
  • Quick Wikipedia checks are okay!
• Why do I care: Does the source type and author credibility meet your needs?
  • Decide this at the beginning so you know whether to investigate or find something better.
• What does it really say: Perceive how the word choices influence the knowledge.
  • How slanted the word choice is can make a difference in how or why you would use it.

Linked Websites

Who says academic journals get to have all the fun? Religion touches every aspect of society--the people behind these websites have created some fascinating ways to explore what religion means.

Lutheran Connections