E-research: An Introduction to on-line Political Science Sources for Beginners (and Skeptics)

Abstract. The purpose of this review article is to contribute to monitoring and debating changes in the electronic research environment. We shall present an overview (mainly tailored to cyberspace neophytes) of some of the best electronic resources currently available on-line for political science, drawing from our experience as editors of IPSAPortal, the International Political Science Association’s website dedicated to selecting and reviewing the top e-hubs in our discipline. However, in venturing into political science cyberspace, we will try to offer a more general understanding of the major trends now impacting upon the internet galaxy. Much as we may be tempted just to stick to our little planet, we must be aware that it is part of, and emerges from, a much larger system.