Can secondary sources be used in place of primary sources during a literature review?

In the context of a literature review, secondary sources refer to works that interpret, analyze, or summarize primary sources. While secondary sources can offer valuable insights and context, they are not a substitute for primary sources, which provide direct evidence and firsthand accounts related to the research question.

Using secondary sources is not inherently inferior; instead, it is about the purpose and context of the research. Secondary sources can be helpful in understanding broader trends, synthesizing existing research, and providing a foundation for a study. However, the most robust evidence comes from primary sources, as they present original findings and direct interactions with the research topic.

In a literature review, reliance on primary sources is generally preferred for establishing the basis of the inquiry. Secondary sources can complement but should not replace primary analysis. Recognizing the strengths and limitations of both types of sources is key to conducting a thorough and credible literature review.