LibGuides: Social Science & Public Policy: Home

General Databases

The following three databases and not subject specific and so are really useful tools for a wide range of subject areas. As different databases have different strengths, it is worthwhile learning how to use and get the best out of a number of different systems. Using databases effectively will allow you to discover material much more effectively than using search engines and in Library Search.

Google Scholar
While Google Scholar does not have the full range of features that other databases do, it has benefits in that it is really easy and intuitive to use, and also searches a really wide range of sources. It certainly shouldn't be the only place you use to search for material, but it is a really useful starting point.
Scopus
Scopus is a large multi-disciplinary database which allows you to search full-text articles, abstracts, and books. King's has a full subscription to Scopus, offering the full flexibility and power of this database.
Web of Science
While the title suggests that this is a database focused on science, the coverage is much wider. This is a powerful database giving full text access to material within our collections, and allowing you to search up and down citation chains.