research topics for humanities

220 Best Humanities Research Topics to Get Started

Table of Contents

Humanities is a broad academic discipline that deals with the various facets of culture and human society. It mainly involves the study of languages, philosophy, literature, religion, art, history, law, archaeology, and anthropology. If you are a humanities student, then as a part of your course, you will have to submit a research paper on any interesting topic related to the subject. In case, you are unsure what topic to choose for your humanities research paper, then check this blog post. For your convenience, here, we have presented a list of the great humanities research topics in various categories. Also, we have shared a few significant tips for selecting a good humanities research topic.

Without wasting your time, explore this blog post and get more ideas for humanities research paper writing.

Tips for Selecting a Good Humanities Research Topic

Before jumping into the humanities research topics list, first, let us take a look at how to select a good humanities research topic.

Usually, when it comes to research paper writing assignments, your professors will share some writing prompts for you to choose from. But, at certain times, they will allow you to select a topic on your own. In such a scenario, you may get confused about what topic to choose.

If you are given a chance to select the humanities research topic of your choice, follow the below-mentioned tips. It would help you identify an ideal humanities research topic.

Pick a practical research topic.
Choose a topic that belongs to your area of interest.
Go with a topic that is related to both the current and historical perspectives.
Give preference to the topic that is impactful to society.
Never pick a topic with no or less research scope.
Select a topic that is matching to the research methodology of your choice.
Consider a topic that is interesting and informative to your readers.
Choose a research topic that has extensive information and credible sources for reference.
Select a topic that contains valid facts, evidence, or examples supporting your major points of discussion.

Besides all these steps, before finalizing your research topic, check whether the topic you have identified stands in line with the writing guidelines of your professor or university. Once you have chosen a perfect humanities research topic, start writing the research paper by using your writing skills, after conducting deep research.

List of the Best Humanities Research Topics

To write a humanities research paper, you can choose a topic from any discipline such as arts, religion, philosophy, medicine, etc.

Especially, to make your topic selection process simple and help you save time, below we have added a list of outstanding humanities research paper ideas on various categories. Go through the entire list carefully and pick any topic that is convenient for you to research and write about.

Basic Humanities Research Paper Topics

Assess the best strategies for negotiations during wars.
How do body image issues change with age?
Does book reading make people more social?
How does economic prosperity affect the feeling of patriotism?
Explain the effects of gender-based violence on children’s personalities.
Explain how social media affect America’s political decisions.
What are the social changes in developed nations?
Research the effectiveness of the UN in fostering global peace.
Discuss the negative impacts of teen pregnancies.
What is the role of America in Europe’s restoration after WWII?
Discuss the role of artists in a time of war
Application of the views of Socrates to western democracy in the 21 st Century
Evaluation of Appalachian language and its academic power
Critical analysis of the role of conflicts in violence
Why building resilience is important for ensuring environmental sustainability?
Perspective pathways to greater human flourishing
Regional Identity and Appalachian Language
The 18th Century Conventions of Feminism and Jane Austen
How can the theories of Socrates be applied to 21st-century Western Democracy?
Briefly discuss the historical tension between religion and science with examples

Excellent Humanities Project Ideas

Compare human and animal sacrifice in religion.
Are fast foods spoiling traditional food cultures?
What are the pros and cons of studying gender issues in school?
How photography is framing public opinion in the 21st century?
Investigate the role of the justice system in advancing equality.
Compare African socialism in the 1950 and 1970s.
Discuss the environmental foundations necessary for humanities.
Explain the pros and cons of studying humanities.
Discuss how cultural stereotypes are developed by superstitions.
Why is it hard to stop bullying in school?
Research why language is essential for any society to thrive.
What impact do graphic novels have on literacy?
Assess human communication and behavior.
How oral history has affected modern culture?
How science fiction has invaded the mainstream culture around the world?
How do intersectionality and gender bias affect inclusion and diversity in the workplace?
Describe the current status of transgender and other sexual minority communities in Canada
Discuss some common social justice issues across every country in the world
Humanity is the best religion and the essence of human existence: Explain
Impact of the feminism movement on society

Great Humanities Research Paper Topics

Discuss the link between bureaucracy and the law-making process.
Write about the executive power in the US.
What are the ethical issues involved in media advertising?
Explain the connection between Italian fashion and Chinese culture.
Discuss the impact of dual nationality on political views.
Analyze the effects of poverty in rural communities.
How Twitter has transformed into a powerful political platform?
Is capitalism the best system?
What is the impact of the Neolithic revolution on people’s cognitive abilities?
Discuss the effects of daily family routines on a child’s development.
How to differentiate the humanities from the social sciences?
Explain the role of capitalism and communism in the study of humanities.
What are the global political and economic issues that affect the study of humanities?
Discuss the effects of irresponsible teenage behavior in society.
Discuss the pros and cons of early marriages.
Analyze the humanities curriculum in the U.S.A.
Write about the origin of humanities in Classical Greek.
What are the factors that inhibit the study of anthropological linguistics?
Explain the factors that modify the behavior of individuals and society.
Explain the impact of the Me Too movement on the girl-child.

Captivating Humanities Research Topics

What are the effects of Consumerism on sustainability?
Write about the fashion trends in society.
Research the social problems faced by people who are with disabilities.
Why does cultural appropriation always result in political contests?
Should poverty be treated as a social issue?
What are the benefits of countercultures in society?
How to prevent the fight for resources in families using the conflict theory?
What is the role of the bible in the development of US democracy?
Explain the major differences between interstate conflicts and wars.
Using the critical race theory analyze the Black Lives Matter activist movement.
Analyze the impact of different class systems on associations.
What are the various clashes between different social classes in the world?
Discuss the effect of various social movements in advocating for change.
What is the ultimate cause of criminal organizations in different societies?
Explain the effect of technology on preserving historical facts.
Explore the reaction of people towards social policies.
Discuss the differences between sects and cults.
What is the impact of the separation of humanities from the realm of the divine?
Discuss the role of critical thinking and effective communication in humanities.
What is the role of early Middle Ages Church Fathers in humanities?

Humanities Research Topics in Philosophy

Discuss election ethics.
What are the main causes of war?
Prepare a case study of Europe in the 20th century based on the application of socialism.
Discuss the inference of learning philosophy for the growth of a society.
Discuss the implications of scientific realism on judgment by scientists.
How to eradicate corruption in society?
Explore mind philosophy and problems with dualism.
Discuss the main challenges involved in regulating the environment using laws.
Are morals relative to society or culture?
Using Aristotle’s perspectives define a perfect government.

Humanities and Arts Research Paper Topics

How does art education make people think differently?
Discuss the effect of music on modern culture and society.
Explain the impact of the Cultural Revolution on Chinese art.
Compare the themes in modern and traditional Caribbean music.
What is water puppetry in Vietnamese tradition?
Analyze the Mayan art and society.
Explain the music and political propaganda in the 20th century.
Compare the role of liberal arts education in the 20th and 21st centuries.
What is the use of totem masks in Papua New Guinea art?
Discuss the causes of the decline of art in medieval Europe.
Explain how Japanese art influenced that country’s clothing.
How the modern art is related to American suffering?
What is the effect of the printing press on the wide-scale spread of art?
What is the influence of ancient art on current artistic trends?
Describe the ancient Greek and Roman motifs in modern architectural works.
Discuss the effects of social media on digital art and the spread of ideas.
Explain the K-pop music style and subculture.
Explain the impact of mythology on the sculptures of Ancient Greece.
Depict war in 20th-century art.
Should advertisements be seen as a form of modern art?

Medical Humanities Research Topics

Can exercise ruin a person’s health?
Should a doctor be allowed to offer medical help against the desires of the guardian?
Discuss the impact of various medical and technological advances.
Explain how to deal with end-of-life issues in medicine.
How are medical addictions portrayed in literature?
Where the people with mental issues should be treated- in or outside their communities?
Explain the history of abortion throughout the 20th century.
What is the relationship between medicine and humanities?
Examine the practice of medicine across different cultures.
Is it ethical to use animals for testing drugs?
Discuss the ethics of medical advances.
Explain the medical practices in the field of battle.
Discuss the criminal charges for medical malpractice throughout the 21st century.
How do humanities affect the use of alternative medicines?
Discuss the religious impact on the medical community.

Digital Humanities Research Paper Topics

Why do social media make people feel lonely as opposed to connecting them?
How to incorporate digital technologies in archiving archaeological data?
Discuss the history of computing in the humanities.
Explain the effect of Modern devices and technology on people’s relationships.
Evaluate the nature and extent of the digital revolution.
What are the effects of video games on violence in society?
Have a closer look at humanities studies and the age of information technology.
Discuss the history of the printing press and its role in spreading ideas.
How do modern gadgets affect people’s mental health?
Should we adopt a scientific approach to the problem of alcoholism?
Does digital technology offer a better life?
Explore the potential of digital academic data.
Discuss the future of digital communication.
Explain how data visualization tools are changing people’s opinions.
Discuss the change in people’s jobs because of technological developments.

Humanities Research Topics on Religion

Discuss the conflict between religion and social order.
Compare the two most ancient religions in society.
What is the role of religion in contemporary society?
Explain the concept of reincarnation in different religions.
What is the major reason for the emergence of new religions?
What is the importance of the church in the well-being of society?
Compare funeral rituals in two religions of your choice.
Explain the difference between new and older religious movements.
Discuss the positive changes that can be achieved through religious practices.
Analyze the concept of Goddess and God in religion.
Explain the similarities between religions around the world.
What is the effect of sacrificial traditions in ancient religions on today’s society?
Discuss female clergy in religions.
What is the relationship between religion and science?
Explain the role of religion and mythology in the study of humanities.

Amazing Humanities Research Ideas

What are the effects of cultural assimilation?
Explain why the topic of abortion is a live wire in most societies.
What is the role of poverty in facilitating violence and civil unrest?
Why has online dating twisted the necessity of marriage?
Why is pop music gaining acceptance among the general population?
Is cultural segmentation a good thing?
Prepare a case study of mass media and fear during terrorist attacks.
How to handle the institutional crisis?
Why social theories are significant in the field of humanities?
What is the role of gender in determining leadership positions in society?
Explain the social issues that affect students in colleges and universities.
Analyze the effects of the great migration.
Why are primarily teenagers and youths resistant to their parents?
Explain the consequences of intersectionality and discrimination in any society.
Compare pop music and classical music

Read more: Great Human Rights Topics For Writing Academic Papers

Outstanding Humanities Research Topics

Write about Western humanities in the 21 st
Discuss symbolism in television sci-fi shows.
Explain the evolution of socialist movements throughout the world.
Write about humanities in the computer age and mass information.
How does online publishing affect humanities?
Describe the Bible’s representation of humanities and culture.
Write about community volunteer programs and their impact on youths.
Discuss the influence of science on humanities over the centuries.
Present the different definitions of freedom from around the world.
Why the tools for cultural analysis are essential for humanities?
Alternative dispute resolution mechanism for the settlement of environmental disputes in Nigeria: A Study of Ojodu Community, Lagos State
Describe the scarily lucrative business model of human trafficking
Technical Change And Productivity in the Manufacturing Industry in Imo State of Nigeria
How the military force of a nation can promote human security in conflict situations?
Analyze the governance and service delivery of the local government in the Kiruhura District of Uganda

Top-rated Humanities Dissertation Topics

What are the challenges faced by adult graduates with learning technologies?
Explain the impact of the internet on the emotional maturity of the students.
How do the qualities of family life affect parent-child relationships?
Assess the link between classroom quality and learning results in kindergarten.
Is creativity a type of fantasy?
What are the major causes of the Cold War?
Discuss the effect of adoption on parent-child relationships.
Investigate how racism affects a family unit.
What are the political and social implications of design?
Explain the future of humanity in an extraterrestrial world.
Examining the most effective tactics for wartime negotiations: Utilize three 20th-century example studies.
When should kids start receiving sex education?
Offspring of multinational marriages facing identification challenges.
Who is responsible for defending human rights on a global scale? A study of the International Criminal Court’s efficacy.
The major reason for misunderstandings in social media communication is a lack of face-to-face encounters.

Read more: Interesting Dissertation Topics to Consider for Academic Writing

Informative Humanities Research Ideas

Answering the challenging inquiries What is the main reason for the conflicts between Israel and Palestine? Can it or it be dealt with?
How Twitter has become a potent political tool.
Do gender and spirituality go together?
Should the United States be held accountable for the severe harm that its use of atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki caused to Japan?
Should social media use be controlled to lessen the risk of addiction and other adverse effects?
Discuss the role played by NGOs and free-of-cost education service delivery organizations to develop underdeveloped nations
Participation motives and competitive orientation of football players in the Kenyan Women’s Premier League
Analyze the central idea of marriage in African Religio-Culture with reference to the Maasai of Kajiado County, Kenya
Critical analysis of women’s political participation: a case of Bomachoge constituency in Kenya (1963-2013)
Association between paternal illicit drug and alcohol consumption, complementary feeding and children’s nutrition status

Awesome Humanities Research Topics

A critical look at the different branches of anthropology
Explain the various changes in human societies through time.
How to propagate a self-sufficient system of human values in the society
What is the impact of breaking down humanities into other majors?
Discuss the notion of different societies concerning aging
Elaborate on the impact of the myths and misconceptions about coronavirus
Discuss the political aspects that relate to social interactions
Explore the field of Geography and its relationship to humanities
A systematic review of the issues affecting rational arguments
Evaluate the process that led to the unification of Germany

Final Words

Out of the different ideas suggested in this blog, select any topic of your choice and draft a brilliant humanities research paper. In case, you need help with humanities research paper topic selection and writing, get in touch with us immediately. We have numerous subject experts on our platform to offer you high-quality humanities assignment help online. Mainly, in accordance with the requirements you share with us, our humanities assignment helpers will prepare and deliver a plagiarism-free research paper prior to the submission date and will also help you in fetching top grades.

So, without any hesitation, place your order and enjoy the benefits of our humanities research paper help service at a reasonable cost.

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I am an Academic Writer and have affection to share my knowledge through posts’. I do not feel tiredness while research and analyzing the things. Sometime, I write down hundred of research topics as per the students requirements. I want to share solution oriented content to the students.

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HumSS Research Topics – Humanities & Social Sciences Topics

Humss (Humanities & Social Sciences) is an interesting field of study featuring college courses like Journalism, Communication Arts, and Education. Research projects for humss revolve around intellect, change, societal issues, and human conditions. Finding humss research topics is not as hard as it seems. For instance, you should know that research topics for humss differ from science topics because scholars are more interested in questions than answers. Also, your topics should be interesting and controversial to capture your readers. Choosing the right research topic about humss will simplify finding content and buy research paper .

Exciting Research Topic about Humss Strand

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Humss strand is one of the courses offered to students who want to pursue college degrees in education, liberal arts, or other social sciences. Choose any of the exciting topics below for your high school humss research project:

The impact of aging on social interactions
Anti-vaccination is the latest trending social movement
Remote working is the latest trend in the corporate world
What is the root cause of social media addiction?
Is there a valid connection between social class and success?
How much control should parents have over their kid’s social life?
What is the appropriate age to start teaching students about gender studies?
The impact of single parenting on a child’s social connection

Choosing interesting research about humss strand will help you stand out from the rest and impact the quality of your paper. Below are some thought-provoking humss research topics you can explore:

Feminism in the corporate place: a critical analysis
Does parental control influence a child’s social personality?
Conventional families: how do they impact a child’s development?
Growing up in an LGBTQ family: How does it influence a child’s sexual identity?
The effects of social media on teens and youths
The outcomes of social networking
Are unconventional families beneficial for child development?
Young motherhood: How does it impact a child’s wellbeing?

Are you a humss student looking for good topics for your research paper about the humss strand? Below are some ideas worth considering:

The impacts of foreign education on professional growth
The link between economic prosperity and the feeling of patriotism among citizens
The right to privacy: a critical analysis in the digital era
Social media preferences among different age and social groups
Does social media increase or reduce loneliness among individuals?
Is there a link between social media addiction and age?
How important is adding food education to the modern education curriculum?
A case study on the correlation between food and national identity

Whether you specialize in education, media, communication, liberal arts, or other social sciences, your humss research topic will influence your grade. You can choose an example of a research title about humss strand from the suggestions below:

The changes that feminism has bought on gender roles at home
The social perception of vegetarianism in different cultures
Spirituality and raw food diets: what is the connection?
Factors that affect students’ productivity during their free time
Social media activism: is it as effective as old-fashioned street protests?
Why you should take body language seriously during online interviews
Twitter: How it shifted from an ordinary social media platform to a political platform
Gender bias: concept definition

You can make your essay or research paper stand out and earn good marks by selecting quality topics. Pick a topic about humss strand from the ideas below:

How has the digital era negatively influenced the social concept of morality?
The impact of social media on people’s ability to understand others’ feelings
Justice and wars: Who is the right person to judge?
The influence of the mass media on political attitudes and statistics
Awareness of public choice: Why is it so important?
Framing: What is its role in the political sector?
The root cause of reduced voter turnout: A case study of the United States
What impact do advertisements have on political views?

Quantitative research involves collecting and analyzing data from deductive approaches like questionnaires while focusing on testing a specific theory. Finding a good top quantitative research topic about humss strand can make your study easier and more effective. Here are some noteworthy ideas:

The electoral process in Michigan (specify location): A quantitative analysis
The cultural practices related to childbirth rates in third-world countries
An evaluation of the factors promoting teenage pregnancies in the 21 st century
The rate of teenage pregnancies in third-world countries Vs. first-world countries
Mass Media: Its impact on political statistics and voter behaviors
How critical are self-defending networks?
A critical analysis of the voter turnout in the recent elections in (state country or state)
Can technology upgrades influence relationships?

Quantitative research involves data collection using questionnaires, interviews, and online or offline surveys. Below are some interesting topics you can write about in this area:

How can cyber-crimes affect human lives?
Racial bullying on social media: a critical analysis
Drug testing in the workplace: is it necessary?
How practical are modern components of sex education in High Schools?
The impacts of the government controlling women’s reproductive rights?
The root cause of stereotypes in society
How gambling feels to an addict
Group social education: What are its benefits?

Qualitative research depends on data obtained through first-hand observation, recordings, or focus groups. You can pick a good qualitative research topic about the humss strand from the following examples:

Why do many students perform poorly in sciences?
The rate of college acceptance in developing nations
Academic preparedness of university students in the United States
Victims of bullying in schools: a case study of (state a specific school or location)
The relationship between android and apple products
Online digital marketing: what is it all about?
Virtual reality worlds: their role in transforming society
Should kids under four years get a preschool education?

Humss is a vast field with thousands of research topic options for students with various specialties. Choose a research topic related to humss from the following option:

The cultural construct of the masculine and feminine identity
How individuals interact with various physical elements
Inter-nation relationships: what challenges hinder healthy relationships between nations?
The value of language in societal success
How has the political sector in the United States evolved in the past century?
The implications of philosophical studies for the growth of a society
Diversity: how does it make society better?
Peace and harmony: why are differences vital for peace and harmony?

Choosing a research title about humss can be challenging if you have not done one before. For this reason, we prepared the following title ideas:

Religious discrimination in the digital era
The conflict between religion and the digital era
Social relations between Islam and Christianity
The unification of Germany: a look at the process
The great migration: a critical analysis
Feminism movements and their impacts on society
Does studying social sciences give you a better chance of success?
The impact of the Ottoman Empire on socialization

When choosing the perfect research topics for humss, you should consider your specialization and research type (qualitative or quantitative). Here are some examples to consider:

The impact of the pandemic on people’s social media behaviors
Internet purchases: how sales taxes affect them
The significance of understanding history in studying humanities
Are all human beings anatomically similar?
The role of humanities in higher learning institutions
Do humanities help students achieve higher analytical and problem-solving skills?
Why do universities require multiple humanities courses?
The influence of William Shakespeare’s plays on modern literature

Focusing on a social issue is the best way to get a unique and interesting research topic for humss students. Here are some examples:

The beginning of the feminist era
How has the pandemic influenced the education sector?
The implications of social media on religion and culture
The impact of healthy doctor-patient relationships on the healthcare sector
The relationship between social media interaction and personality development
How is the digital era affecting the elderly in society?
Modern inter-nation wars: implications of the war between Ukraine and Russia
Is the United States still the most powerful country in the world?

Writing a research paper is as easy or hard as the topic you choose. Here are some humss research title ideas:

The relationship between empathy and the experience of illness
The impact of media on the study of medicine
The relationship between social media and education
Is diversity vital in society?
The impact of gun violence on school attendance
Modern aspects of poetry: a critical analysis
The COVID-19 pandemic’s influence on social media addiction
Social media addiction and age: what is the correlation?

Below are some key ideas on the topic about humss you can focus your research on:

How do parents influence their children’s social behaviors
Social education: how it helps students develop
How do teachers include their student’s course choices?
Boarding schools for boys Vs. boarding schools for girls
How has social media influenced people’s views of celebrities?
The role of social influencing in purchasing behaviors
When is military force justifiable
Should community service be mandatory for all students?

Your research title for humss will help you determine your paper’s outline and research methods. Below are some incredible topics you should consider:

Do advertisements still influence people’s purchasing behaviors?
Social media marketing Vs. conventional advertising
Dual nationality: its impact on political views
The implications of personality on political attitudes
The correlation between collective action and public policies
Do changes in public policies influence public opinions?
The correlation between law-making and bureaucracy
The influence of public policy on innovation

A concept paper provides your research’s purpose, background, and outline. Therefore, choosing the perfect topic is vital. Below are some ideas to look into:

The US-Mexico Border Dilemma: an analysis
Perfectionist policy: concept definition
Why are more people turning to digital work in the 21 st century?
Ethical issues in the dialysis of homelessness
Effects of stigma among leaders
How is technology reshaping the future of social interaction?
Importance of practical counseling sessions for Psychology students
How can parents cope with their kids’ disabilities

A good humss research paper should have a background research topic. Here are some great examples:

The root cause of international cyber-attacks
The history of Europe and its importance in humanities studies
The root of punishment in households
Should religious freedom be granted to kids under 18 years?
The growth and spread of Islam in African nations
How missionaries shaped Africans’ views on religion
The impact of the Great Awakenings on US history
The growth of Pentecostalism in Latin nations

Quantitative research is a dominant research technique in social sciences, where students can focus on topics like politics and elections. Here are some good ideas:

The effectiveness of home care against nursing homes
The development of telehealth in the 21 st century
How effective are cardiovascular treatments?
The link between mortality rates and gender
The changes in critic ratings and their impact on equity returns
Do people’s decision-making processes depend on their subconscious?
Impact of racism on mental health
Social anxiety triggers in youths

Let’s Help You

The humss strand is so vast that you can easily find a topic depending on your area of specialization. You can also pick a topic based on interesting social issues . Also, you must be keen on selecting a quality research title that stands out and makes your writing easier. If you feel overwhelmed choosing a title or writing a humss paper, we are here to help you. Talk to us now!

Writing custom essays & research papers since 2008

243 amazing humanities topics for research.

Humanities is an academic discipline that deals with studying the different aspects of culture and human society. This field has a rich historical background that distinguishes it from other empirical approaches to the natural sciences.

The different fields in humanities include archaeology, classics, philosophy, religion, linguistics, and languages. You will encounter methods such as hermeneutics and source criticism in the course of your study. It is crucial to understand that scholars in humanities significant to questions rather than answers.

What Are Humanities Topics?

These are topics that major in interpreting the known facts and look at them from a fresh perspective. Unlike sciences and other fields, there are no restrictive rules – you can create them in the form of art.

Humanities topics involve the study of human society and social relationships. Such titles are analytical and deal with the philosophical questions of what makes us human. Since they trace their origin from ancient Greece, these topics take a more historical turn.

When coming up with humanities topics, it is essential to consider the following:

They should be practical
They should impact society as a whole
Should relate the historical and current perspectives

Humanities students have the rare opportunity of understanding ancient and modern events that shape human life. You can learn all things from the romantic era’s poetry to the rise and fall of empires in the 15th century. It thus widens your understanding of the historical perspectives of almost every aspect of life.

In humanities topics, college students get strengthened in their research, writing, and critical thinking skills. But what are the best topics in humanities that you can present and score an A+?

Look at the topics below for inspiration.

Best-Rated Anthropology Humanities Paper Topics

How different aspects of the social sciences relate with humanities and human biology.
Reproducible and verifiable experiments in human anthropology
Local traditions that shape the structure and functioning of human life
Scientific methods to understand social phenomena in the society
Why do humanities use nuanced descriptions rather than general laws?
A critical look at the different branches of anthropology
Factors that inhibit the study of anthropological linguistics
Why cultural anthropology receives a cold shoulder among most undergraduate students
Describe a case study that properly illustrates sociocultural anthropology
Why is it difficult to provide a holistic account of humans and human nature?
Why do anthropologists only specialize in one sub-field?
Explain the importance of the biological, linguistic, historical, and cultural aspects of any problem.
Describe the impact of anthropology arising as a science in Western societies
Major industrial trends associated with anthropology research
Effectiveness of methodological drives in studying peoples in communities with more simple social organization
Why non-western cultures are least accepted in most countries?
The quest for holism in the study of humanities
How to use the biogenetic, archaeological, and linguistic data in humanities

Professional Topics For Humanities Classes

Factors affecting the proper record keeping of archaeological data
The role of architecture, biofacts, and Eco facts in human archaeology
Using culture history to reconstruct past lifeways in ancient culture
Explain the various changes in human societies through time.
Describe the origin of humanities in the Classical Greek
How the general education dating from the Sophists in the mid-5th century influenced humanities
The role of early Middle Ages Church Fathers in humanities
Describe the role of 15th-century Italian humanists to denote secular literary
How ancient Greek and Latin studies have helped advance research in humanities
The impact of the separation of humanities from the realm of the divine
Methods of the maturing physical sciences in the scholarly arena
Discuss the contemporary conceptions concerning the study of humanities
Conduct a complete analysis of the humanities curriculum in the U.S.A.
How to propagate a self-sufficient system of human values in the society
How to distinguish the humanities from the social sciences

High-Quality Topics For Humanities Research Papers

How different countries vary in the way of their social interactions
What is the impact of breaking down humanities into other majors?
Global political and economic issues affecting the study of humanities
Using sociology to draw a complete picture of how the world works
How to reinvent the best ideas from the past occurrences effectively
The role of critical thinking and effective communication in humanities
Which set of abilities should students have for humanities?
Discuss the factors that affect the behavior of individuals and society
Why are humanities papers on marriage among the most relevant nowadays?
Is it true that focusing on the family is vital for one’s self-development?
Discuss the notion of different societies concerning aging
Why is the world still struggling with the problem of inequality to date?
Factors affecting changes in social interactions among communities
The role of social media in shaping the perspectives of different people
Evaluate the factors affecting teenagers in the 21st century

Impressive Topics For Humanities Research Paper

Discuss the impact of various social movements in advocating for change
Why is child abuse still a pertinent issue in the 21st century?
The role of social backgrounds in contributing to conflicts at workplaces
What is the main challenge facing racial movements?
An analysis of the reaction of people towards social policies
Elaborate on the trends and impacts of irresponsible teenage behavior in the society
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of early marriages
Why should parents not restrict their children from accessing the internet?
Analyze the different class systems and their impact on associations
What is the primary cause of criminal organizations in different societies?
A case study of cliques among high school and college students
The risk of delaying early childhood education among children in the U.S.A.
Discuss the various clashes between different social classes in the world
What is the place of the marginalized in society?
Discuss the impact of the Me Too movement on the girl-child

Hot Humanities Research Topics

What are the leading causes of drinking among a majority of the population?
Discuss the various means of dealing with institutional crisis
The role of capitalism and communism in the study of humanities
What are the impacts of immigration into the U.S. from Mexico?
The role of gender in determining leadership positions in the society
Theoretical foundations of humanities in different institutions
Discuss the significant differences between sects and cults
Elaborate on the impact of the myths and misconceptions about coronavirus
The role of poverty in facilitating violence and civil unrest
Is cultural segmentation a good thing?
The effect of technology on preserving historical facts
Why social theories are essential in the field of humanities
Discuss the origin of the discrimination against African-Americans
An overview of the effects of cultural assimilation
Is it possible to eliminate healthcare disparities among the LGBT community?

Interesting Humanities Topics

Discuss the role of video games in advancing violence in societies
Why fashion is becoming a distraction for many in the society
Discuss why the topic of abortion is a live wire in most societies
A case study of mass media and fear during terrorism attacks
Discuss the social role of mass media in communities
Why has online dating distorted the necessity of marriages?
Discuss the evolution of lifestyles from the 15th century to date
The part of body images in appealing to emotions
Why are most college students victims of poor time management?
The effects of the social, cultural engagements in the development of societies
Discuss the political aspects that relate to social interactions
Why are primarily teenagers and youths defiant to their parents?
Why people from different nationalities differ from each other
Why can’t the millennial live without updates of any event?
Social issues affecting students in colleges and universities

Latest Humanities Project Ideas

Discuss the different branches of humanities concerned with creative audio-visual pursuits
Conduct an in-depth analysis of the human communication and behavior
Critically examine the role of the justice system in advancing equality
Current issues facing societies about the coronavirus prevention protocols
The part of statistical data relating to population
Explore the environmental foundations necessary for humanities
Look at the gender divide in society and how to address it
Discuss the cultural construct of the masculine and feminine identity
Explore the field of Geography and its relationship to humanities
How people interact with different physical features
What are the challenges when it comes to relations between nations?
Examine why language is essential for any society to thrive
The role of multi-cultural and regional dimensions to humanities
Why the study of beliefs, histories, values, and geographic backgrounds is necessary
A systematic review of the issues affecting rational arguments

Top-Tier Humanities Topics Ideas

Examine the role of religion and mythology in the study of humanities
Why is pop music gaining acceptance among the general population?
Investigate the relationship between society and social relationships
Explore how the politics and government of the United States has evolved over the ages
Study the implications of studying philosophy to the growth of a society
Dive into the impact of peer-reviewed humanities papers
The role of diversity in making the world a better place
The importance of intersectionality and discrimination in any society
Why differences can also advance peace and harmony
Discuss the social relations between Islam and Christians
Evaluate the process that led to the unification of Germany
How did the Vietnam War affect the relationships of different countries?
Outline the impacts of the great migration
Impact of the Women’s Suffrage movements in championing for female rights
How did the Ottoman Empire contribute to socialization?

World-Class Topics in Humanities

Discuss the conflict between religion and social order
What is the best disciplinary action for employees’ misconduct outside work
The role of sales tax on internet purchases
Why it is essential to understand the history of Europe in understanding humanities
Why are human beings anatomically similar?
The part of Greek and Latin texts and language in the study of humanities
Why are the classical-era scholars in important in humanities?
Discuss the role of humanities in institutions of higher learning
Why do humanities and liberal studies make up the bulk of specialization for college students
Give a substantive analysis of the renaissance-era humanists
The place of a balanced curriculum in fostering critical humanist skills
How humanities help students achieve analytical and problem-solving skills
Why do most universities require multiple humanities courses?
Discuss the events that led to the French revolution
The implications of William Shakespeare’s plays

Medical Humanities Research Topics

Discuss the ethical and humanistic dimensions of medicine
Analyze the impact of various medical and technological advances
The growing interest of researchers in the field of neuro-ethics
Discuss the relationship between medicine and humanities
How has the history of medicine varied with that of the humanities sector?
Critical issues of healthcare access and public health policy
What are the factors facing doctor-patient relationships?
Discuss how to deal with end-of-life issues in medicine
How does the media impact the study and progress of medicine?
Analyze the relationship between medicine and society
Who are the most significant scholars in medical anthropology?
A critical analysis of empathy and experience of illness
Choices available for doctors in the neonatal intensive care unit
How the issues of limited resources impact access to medical care
Analyze the ethics of medical advances

Good Research Topics For Humanities

Informed consent issues for the matter of terminal diseases
Why is humanities a rich interdisciplinary concentration?
The vital importance of diversity in any society
The state of empathy and sympathy during the COVID-19 pandemic
Explore the different aspects of poetry
Is it practical for anyone to work late in the night?
How modern literature writers find meaning and inspiration in the works
Ethical issues involved in the dialysis of the obese, homeless, and diabetic
Why motivational interviewing was preferred for patients with diabetes?
Discuss the effects of stigma among leaders
The role of technology in reshaping the future of social interactions
An innovative approach on the psychological aspects students
Discuss the essentials of a practical counseling session
Why do there exist disparities between the likeness of children to their parents
The effects of becoming a counseling psychologist

Unique Topics For Humanities Research Paper

Personal and professional reflections on the 9/11
How parents can handle children with disabilities
The impact of social media on the freedom of speech: A case of Facebook
The role of the international criminal court in maintains world law and order.
Analyze the economic context of a novel
Emergent property and consciousness in the study of philosophy
Discuss the effectiveness of the theories of punishment
Are we likely to experience a third and fourth wave of feminism?
What are the factors that are likely to cause philosophical anarchism?
Discuss the growth and spread of Pentecostalism in Latin America
Evaluate the impact of the Great Awakenings in the U.S. history
Conduct an overview of the Shia minorities in the Middle East
What are the social and cultural implications of the Religious Freedom Act?
Do atheists honestly believe that there is no God?
How to foster relationships among the Catholics and Evangelicals

College Humanities Essay Topics

The necessity of teaching children the gender issues
What is the origin of the discussions for and against gay marriages?
Is it correct to say that everyone is a stereotype by default?
An overview of the international marriages and globalism
The impact of spending more time on social networking sites
The role of social norms and cultures in a given society
Why do most people experience challenges shifting from one culture to another?
Discuss the relationship between a class and a student’s performance
Are unconventional families essential for the growth and development of any child?
Why do most students prefer foreign education over any other?
Discuss the concept of the right to privacy
Why do some studies need to engage in patriotism students?
The role of economic prosperity in influencing patriotism
Discuss the relationship between social media and addiction
A case study of WhatsApp as the best social media group in the U.S.A.

Topics in Digital Humanities

Discuss the various tools and methods for nineteenth-century American literature
Understanding how the media is involved in human interactions
Why digital communications technologies are the new norm
Analyze the nature and extent of the digital revolution
The history of computing in the humanities
A humanistic critique of the computational methods
Why most practitioners are opting for digital communication
The role of the computer as a continual tool of innovation
The process of using and building digital projects
Incorporating digital technologies in archiving archaeological data
Discuss the connection between traditional and digital textual scholarship
Large-scale digital literary analysis
Explore the potential of the digital academic data
The broader context of the digital humanities
How to computationally research and teach in humanities

Humanities And Arts Research Topics

Home-schooling
Literacy levels in America
The role of prayer in schools
Programming and advertising
The portrayal of women by media
Physical attention techniques
Affirmative action programs in the U.S.A.
What is the way forward on gambling?
Race relations
Learning disabilities
Family values
Intelligence tests
Distant learning
White-collar jobs
Morals and values

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conflict and compromise in history topics

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233 Great Humanities Topics For 2023

Picking a great paper topic is the first step you need to put together a great assignment. In humanities classes, this is very important because you need to consider topics that will explore new areas in the subject but also be topics that can be thoroughly researched given the limitations of an assignment. If you ask, “what are humanities topics I can use to write a great research paper?” you can refer to the list of free humanities paper topics below:

Humanities and Arts Research Topics

These humanities research paper topics are great for students interested in art history and other related fields that take a close look at the impact art has had on society:

Impact of Middle Eastern art on Western civilization.
American art influences democracy.
The Romantic period and modern art techniques.
Depictions of war in 20 th -century art.
Defining the European distress in modern art forms.
Racist depictions in early global maps and the impact on societies.
The ways that medicine has impacted how we view cultural expression.
Human flourishing and different perspectives in modern art.
Religious influence in 19 th -century European art.
The African American experience during the Harlem Renaissance.
The influence of music on modern culture and society.
Political propaganda in 20 th century American and European art.
The Beat Generation and its influence on modern art.
Ancient art and its influence on current artistic trends.
Mayan and Aztec artistic influence on current Latino cultures.
The Reformation Period and its impact on the art of the 20 th century.
Social media’s impact on digital art and the spread of ideas.
The impact of the printing press on the widescale spread of art.
The impact that modern warfare has had on artistic expression.
The stolen art of WWII and how it relates to cultures.
Early cave paintings and the understanding of human culture.
Racism and negative ethnic depictions in 20 th -century art.
Explain the ways Japanese art influenced the country’s clothing.
Popular music is an artistic form of expression among youth.
The censorship of specific artforms and the impact on culture.
The most famous architectural works from around the world.
How architecture was influenced by foreign cultures.
Ancient Greek and Roman motifs in modern architectural works.
The influence of 20 th -century art on 21 st -century culture.
How music influences youth culture in the 21 st century.

Topics in Digital Humanities

This is a relatively new field that offers a lot of opportunities for exploration. Just be sure you consider your topic carefully, as you may have some trouble finding information in your research:

Social media’s impact on third world countries.
The impact social media has had on international relations.
The ways digital humanities is changing the educators teach children.
Explain how digital access to information affects culture.
Metadata and scholarship processing in the 21 st century.
Language processing with the use of digital tools.
Linguistics and the role digital humanities has on the future.
The study of migration using technology.
Digital tools and their role in mapping underground structures.
Digital communication creates a bigger gap between generations.
The study of ancient texts through digital technologies.
Digital humanities and the mapping of our ancestral histories.
Linked open data and the challenges it faces in gathering data.
The ways digital archiving has helped people embrace ancestral cultures.
Researching art using digital technologies.
The impact digital humanities will have on higher education.
The media’s use of digital communication can affect the way we identify culturally.
Digital humanities in the developing world.
Machine learning and its impact on the discipline of humanities.
Implementing digital tools and resources into education.
Forensic study in the search for hidden meaning in texts.
Encoding U.S. documents to improve the legal process.
Digital communication and how we view military conflicts.
Access to digital information helps people learn more efficiently.
Removing discrepancies in translations of ancient works.
Recognizing patterns in historical literature.
Digital archives and analysis of the written word.
The ways data visualization tools are changing people’s opinions.
Digital humanities change the way we view our cultural past.
The ways digital humanities have helped us visually recreate ancient cities.

Medical Humanities Research Topics

These ideas are great to write about because many discussions are occurring on the internet. Writing about medical issues is a great way to get the reader’s attention. Here are some great topics to consider for a humanities research paper:

Humanities studies impact doctor-assisted suicide cases.
The history of abortion throughout the 20 th century.
Cultural influences and prenatal genetic testing in developed countries.
The evolution of medical costs in the United States.
The ways that medical theories have been represented in art.
Informing families of patients’ illnesses throughout literature.
Wearing a mask after Covid-19 and its effects on culture.
Social distancing and the connections made through social media.
Creating a culture of social distancing to avoid future pandemics.
Giving doctors the right to work extra hours without pay.
How literature influences the use of marijuana for medical regions.
Robotics replacing the roles of nurses and doctors in the medical field.
Medical depictions in art versus religious depictions in art.
How are medical addictions portrayed in literature?
The practice of medicine across different cultures.
Medical ethics is involved in deciding who lives and dies.
Medical practices in the field of battle.
Medical care for people from low-income areas.
The impact art has had on growing the medical community.
Medical records and the development of treatments.
How humanities influence the use of alternative medicines.
How religion impacts the way patients agree to treatments.
Criminal charges for medical malpractice throughout the 21 st century.
Representation of the medical profession through the 20 th century.
The rise of confidentiality agreements in the medical field.
Questions and concerns regarding abortion in the modern age.
The decision to vaccinate or not for the safety of the greater population.
Religious impact on the medical community.
The rights of patients when religion prevents certain procedures.
Medical depictions in the art are against religious principles.

Good Research Topics for Humanities

If you don’t have a lot of time to conduct in-depth research, you may want to write about any of these topics in humanities. You will have no trouble finding information on the web, just be sure you use trustworthy sources when making your argument:

The impact television has had on modern culture.
Political commentary in modern music.
The role humanities will play on future generations.
The ways humans flourish through different shared perspectives.
The need to promote the study of humanities in schools.
The application of philosophy in western democracy.
Artistic influence during the times of war.
The ways the Depression of the 1930s influenced culture.
Broadening the mind through international travel.
Literature and the increasing rate of illiteracy in adults.
The impact music has on political propaganda.
Fair treatment of immigrants in the U.S.
Western humanities in the 21 st century.
The ways culture is shaped by modern photography.
Eastern philosophy and its influence on western cultures.
Cults and modern religious movements in American society.
Eastern religion and its influence on western beliefs.
The importance of studying philosophy in humanities.
International trade routes and the spread of cultures.
The impact of social media in modern culture.
Social media and the dissemination of international news.
The impact that media has on modern culture.
The Ottoman Empire and its role in shaping the Middle East.
The impact the 20 th migration movement had on international policy.
The lost Native-American languages and the country’s culture.
The influence that African music has had on American culture.
The impact Joe Hill had on the country’s early labor struggles.
The influence of the Beat Generation on modern culture.
The unification of Germany and its impact on international policy.
Gender expectations in American modern fiction.

Humanities Project Ideas for High School

When writing any assignment, you always want to make sure you choose a good topic. These humanities topics ideas are great for students that are still learning skills in researching and writing. Students should have no trouble finding information:

Sacrificial traditions in ancient religions and their impact on today’s society.
The impact the printing press had on spreading religion.
Theatre of the absurd and its impact on modern culture.
The protection of traditions when they are considered unethical.
Questions that arise from space exploration efforts.
The impact the IRA has had on international relations.
Interpreting Sigmund Freud’s theories in the 21 st century.
Cultural differences between Latin American countries.
The Chinese Communist Revolution and its influence on global culture.
Fairy tales and the influence they have had on modern cinema.
Symbolism in television sci-fi shows.
How the gothic genre has captured new readers.
The history of nationalism in the United States vs. European countries.
Speakeasies in the 1920s and the role they had in shaping culture.
The Sit-down strike of the mid-1930s and its impact on the 21 st century.
The impact graphic novels have had on literacy.
The United States’ Woman’s Suffrage Movement and its influence around the world.
The war protests of the 1960s and 1970s and modern American politics.
How African culture has influenced modern American culture.
The decisions that are made by public policy committees.
The Dust Bowl and how the U.S. was shaped into different regions.
How eco poetry has changed our understanding of the environment.
Folklore’s influence on how we interact with others.
How science fiction has entered the mainstream culture around the world.
Community volunteer programs and their impact on youth.
How oral history has influenced modern culture.
The impact television has had on America’s youth.
Explain the history of human violence in the U.S.
The human family unit and its role in racism.
Human interaction over social media outlets.

Humanities Essay Topics for College

The humanities research topics listed below don’t require a lot of in-depth academic research and can be dealt with by doing some easy background research on the web and then some research at the library:

Animal rights and their impact on American culture.
The effect that Third Wave Feminism has had on Europe.
The influence the Islamic religion has had on American culture.
The meaning of moral philosophy in the United States.
Similarities between religions around the world.
Political obligation at the federal level versus the state level.
How humans think about the future of the world.
The definition of the human condition is described in the Bible.
Events that led to the study of humanity at a scholarly level.
The negative effects of the temperance movement in the U.S.
The quest for happiness in modern society.
The ways theology contradicts our knowledge of medicine.
The industrial revolution’s impact on human identity.
The impact modern photography has on European and American culture.
Color and the impact it has had on the human experience.
Different definitions of freedom from around the world.
The major religious ideologies in humans and their impact on societies.
The role gender definitions play in the educational experience.
Development of new languages in today’s society.
Diverse human behaviors and cultural characteristics.
The Bible’s representation of humanities and cultures.
Humans and the root of modern society.
Possessions humans have learned to live without.
Global warming and its impact on different cultures around the world.
The evolution of violence among humans.
The reason why humans will become extinct.
The ways subcultures have developed over the decades.
Science and its influence on humanities over the centuries.
The way Roman and Greek civilizations educated themselves.
The evolution of social interactions among humans.
The way Western Civilizations developed over the centuries.
The negative impact humans have on the earth’s environment.
Music and its impact on human psychology.
The ways our environmental surroundings affect our cultures.
Present a detailed overview and analysis of global humanities.
The characteristics that separate humans from all other animals.
The importance of mistakes to improve a person’s development.
The impact war has on children in devastated areas.
How humans became the dominant species on earth.
The reasons humans have decided to procreate less.

Topics for Humanities Research Paper

Many young students find this area of study interesting. So, we have gathered several humanities research project topics that will inspire them to explore the field further without being too overwhelming:

The ways different world cultures perceive and handle death.
The role of holidays in bringing people together and strengthening the family unit.
Relationships with domesticated pets and inclusion into family life.
The cultural meaning behind family names and how they bring people together.
The role a nation’s economy has had on human development.
The evolution of socialist movements throughout the world.
The tension between religion and science throughout the centuries.
The ways humanity will change in the next century because of our current state.
An exploration of the way humanity was represented in the art of the Renaissance.
The Enlightenment Period and its impact on human development.
The Harlem Renaissance and its influence on African American culture.
Humanities in the computer age and mass information.
Human identity and the role of the Industrial Revolution in our development.
The relationship between the environment and human beings.
The impact WWI and WWII had on our understanding of humanity.
Holidays and the different ways we celebrate them.
Cultural diets from around the world and our relationship with food.
The ways different cultures define democratic freedom.
Education in liberal arts and its current role in education.
The course of American politics over the last century.

Interesting Humanities Topics for Grad School

As students become more familiar with this type of assignment and as they advance to higher academic levels, they will need to choose a topic that meets or surpass the standards of their instructors’ expectations. Here is a list targeted toward graduate-level students:

The impact that genocides have had on groups of people.
Comic books and graphic novels and their influence on America’s youth.
Super-hero movies in the 21 st century and how they are affecting culture.
The influence the media has on our understanding of society.
The most fascinating aspects of European and American culture.
Different cultures and our beliefs about the human soul.
The ways Asian literature has entered American culture.
Slavery across the centuries and the ways we still discriminate.
Early civilizations and the evolution of human societies.
Human interactions with nature and wild species.
The political divide is caused by different parties and ideologies.
World Travel and its ability to broaden our thinking of other cultures.
The influence villains in movies have on human behavior.
The ways people mistreat natural environments.
Violence in television and the ways it affects young adults.
The impact racism has had in American society.
The ways society is influenced by the media.
Diversity and inclusion among different ethnic groups.
Professional sports and their ability to bring people together.
Cultural identification and the way it affects the way we look at history.
The definition of social Darwinism in modern society.
The portrayal of women in 20 th -century European literature.

If you need more humanities research papers, we can put you in contact with one of our academic experts trained in the subject. He or she can provide you with a custom list you can apply to any kind of assignment. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Send us an email or call us by phone, we are always glad to help.

Doing Research

In the humanities, as in the sciences, research begins with formulating a hypothesis about a subject and “testing” it out by engaging with evidence. But the nature of the evidence, the method of testing, and the kind of knowledge produced in humanities research differ from those in the sciences.

Rather than using quantitative or qualitative evidence as researchers do in the sciences, humanities researchers rely for evidence on their own close readings of primary and secondary texts. Whereas research in the sciences is grounded in the empirical method, humanities research uses a diverse array of methodologies, sometimes combining historical, conceptual, and/or critical methodologies in a single study. And instead of attempting to “prove” their hypotheses once and for all, humanities researchers develop arguments using their hypotheses in order to contribute and extend to ongoing critical conversations. These conversations themselves, one might say, constitute knowledge in the humanities.

Doing research into what has already been written about on your topic will allow you not only to situate your hypothesis within these conversations, but also to come up with questions that haven’t yet been asked. Through critical reading, you can identify gaps in previous writing on your topic and orient your own project to address these gaps if they seem like meaningful oversights. Your aim as a humanities researcher, then, is to develop a fuller understanding of your subject matter in dialogue with other scholars, and thus to move this ongoing conversation forward.

To develop a research question, you might start by making a bulleted list of topics or issues that you might want to pursue, based on your interests and the concerns of your course. When making this list, you should be expansive. Don’t limit yourself: your goal at this stage is to generate ideas, not evaluate them.

Next, you could try free-writing on the themes you see emerging from your list of potential topics. Are there any areas of interest that seem to repeat or echo? Can you start to create umbrella terms? Are you noticing friction within or between some of these concerns? These are just a few of the questions that may lead to a more focused line of investigation.

Then, see if you can reframe your topic or theme as a research question by asking “How?” or “Why?” Keep in mind that your research question should be debatable and defendable : you may find that other scholars have very different points of view on this question or its answer. This is a good sign, and an invitation for you to step in and contribute to the scholarly discussion.

Here are some helpful suggestions for broadening, narrowing, or otherwise tweaking a preliminary research topic so that you will be poised to write a well-focused essay.

And here is a concise overview that will guide you on the road to finding your research question .

To engage fully with your secondary sources, you will need to read critically. But reading sources critically doesn’t necessarily mean disagreeing with them or reading them in a negative way. Rather, it means analyzing the details of an argument-driven piece of popular or scholarly writing that you may ultimately use towards fashioning your own argument. It means asking how these details reflect the assumptions, values, and stakes of the writer’s argument. Reading critically means navigating between doubting and believing what you read.

When reading critically, we treat what we read less like objective, self-evident data and more like evidence being presented to persuade us of something. Sometimes it’s obvious that what we’re reading is trying to persuade us of something—think of an editorial that takes an explicitly controversial stance or a scholarly article that clearly signposts its position using phrases like “here I argue…” Other texts may make their arguments more subtly or indirectly. But either way, reading critically involves considering how the components and structure of the argument contribute to its actual or intended effect upon the reader.

One approach to reading critically is to investigate a text’s “ way of thinking .” Rather than reading simply for comprehension or information, you can also attend to a text’s claims, contexts, kinds of reasoning, and evidence in order to evaluate the effectiveness of its argument and to think about what you might add to the discussion or redirect it.

Another approach involves asking questions about the relationship between the parts and the whole of an argument. These questions might address the role of pattern, process, sequence, causality, and other elements of argumentation and structure.

Here are some tips for reading secondary sources and some step-by-step exercises for reading critically.

Since you can’t write an interesting research paper without engaging with other scholars’ ideas, you’ll have to find secondary sources that are accurate and pertinent to your argument.

You’ll almost certainly want to start online, but the internet is an enormously complex—and just plain enormous!—compendium of resources. You can use Wikipedia to check out some basic facts and get some rough background information, but it’s not a reliable, scholarly source–see What’s Wrong With Wikipedia . Likewise, Googling, even using Google Scholar , can only get you so far, since there are valuable scholarly resources out there that are discoverable only by using humanities-specific Web directories ( Voice of the Shuttle , started in 1994, is the granddaddy of all online humanities research directories) and databases ( JSTOR , Project Muse , and the MLA International Bibliography , among others), along with the Berkeley library’s online catalogue .

Before you begin searching in a library catalog or journal database, familiarize yourself with using advanced search functions , such as “Boolean operators” (the basic ones are AND, OR, and NOT), truncation and wildcards (*, !, ?, or #), and keywords and subject headings. Here are some suggestions for coming up with searchable keywords .

You can read many of the sources (especially the articles) that you find through databases entirely online; you’ll need to track down other sources (like most books and book chapters) in the library. Once you’ve found a book in the library, take some time to scan nearby shelves for other books on the same topic that might not have come up in your catalog search. Also scan the bibliographies and footnotes of books and articles you’ve already found: these are great places to find more sources on your topic.

“Good” here means two different things: “good” as in relevant to your topic and useful for the kind of argument you’re making, but also “good” as in scholarly, reputable, and current.

To determine the usefulness and relevance of a secondary source, begin by skimming it . If the source at hand is an article, read the abstract. If it doesn’t have an abstract, read the opening paragraph, the section headings, and/or first sentences of a few of the body paragraphs, plus the concluding paragraph. If it is a book, read the blurb on the back cover, the table of contents, and the beginning and ending of the introduction and/or conclusion. From this quick but strategic dip into a secondary source, you should be able to glean something about its overall argument and whether it provides useful material for your own project.

Remember: don’t discard a scholarly source just because it contradicts what you want to say. Do you disagree with its premises, its use of evidence, or its conclusions? Any of these points of disagreement might provide a foothold for advancing your own argument. Or if a secondary source does not address your primary text directly, does it put forth a theory or provide information that will help you to analyze your text?

Your quick dip into a source may also give you a feel for the quality of its scholarship. But there are also many concrete questions you can ask about a source to evaluate its reliability. What are the credentials of the author? Who is the publisher and the intended audience? When was it published? What sources does it cite? For a more detailed breakdown of ways to evaluate print and online sources, consult one or more of the following (reliable!) resources:

Evaluating Resources (UC Berkeley Library) Quality of Sources (Dartmouth College) Critically Analyzing Information Sources (Cornell University Library) Evaluating Web Pages (Cornell University Library) Evaluating Print vs. Internet Sources (Purdue OWL) Interpreting Sources (University of Michigan)

Skimming is a valuable reading technique. It can give you a general sense of what a text is about, and it can help you to locate key arguments and passages relevant to your own research and writing. Skimming is also useful when you’re short on time. Let’s be honest: skimming is sometimes the only reading you have time to do!

But skimming does not mean speed-reading an entire text; zooming through a whole story or story at breakneck speed is, generally speaking, a waste of your time. Instead, skim strategically. Read the first and last pages of the whole work, and then read the beginning and ending of each chapter. Look for words, especially names, which appear repeatedly, dipping selectively into the text to get a sense of the style and “texture” of the writing.

Scholarly and critical texts, typically used as secondary sources, often have abstracts that give a summary of their main argument, and they also often have section headings, topic sentences, and transitions to guide readers through their discussion. Introductions are good places to look for roadmaps and thesis statements, while conclusions often summarize the whole argument. Focusing on these signposts will help you get the gist of an article or book without reading the whole thing in depth. These techniques are especially useful when your research turns up multiple secondary sources and you need to select the ones most relevant to your own topic.

You can find some pointers on skimming in this very thorough set of instructions on How to Read a Book .

Taking notes is an essential part of doing research. Obviously, the notes you take should provide a clear record of what you’ve read. But the very act of note-taking can help you to develop your thinking about your research question and ultimately to use evidence to support your argument.

To help yourself read secondary sources critically, you should take thorough but not overly detailed notes . Make sure to record key terms but don’t write out everything word for word; paraphrase whenever possible to make sure you have a grasp of relevant points; and don’t highlight or underline without also making marginal notes about the significance of the marked words or passages and any questions you might have about them.

Make sure to include complete bibliographic data with your notes on each source so that you can retrace your steps if you end up needing to go back for more information or to check that you are quoting accurately. There are many different formats for note-taking—in the margins of the text or on Post-Its; on paper or in a Word document—and you’ll need to experiment to figure out what works best for you. You will also need to work out a good system for organizing and reviewing the notes you take. If you are juggling multiple sources, for example, consider using index cards or a citation management software ( Zotero and Mendeley are two popular ones) to organize and annotate your sources. You can even use these programs to generate properly formatted endnotes and Works Cited lists.

You can use your notes as the basis for an annotated bibliography ; here are some additional resources on writing annotated bibliographies. Even if your instructor does not require you to produce a formal bibliography as a preliminary phase of your research paper, your own notes will still serve as the basis for situating and differentiating your own argument within a field of existing literature. Your notes should help you to take a strong, well-informed, and original stance in your writing.

Research, like writing, is not a linear process. You will probably begin with a broad topic that will gradually become more focused over the course of your research and writing. You’ll then have to do additional research on this more focused and developed version of your original topic. Remember that the evolution of your topic depends not only on your reading but also on your writing throughout the research process. Such preliminary writing might include producing an annotated bibliography and/or a prospectus, as well as in less formal modes such as freewriting, mind mapping, outlining, and drafting.

The process of researching and refining, and researching and refining again, could go on endlessly, but don’t let it. You have to strike a balance between your responsibility as a researcher—citing and integrating the sources most relevant to your topic (not just the first three sources you find!)—and what is humanly possible. You can’t read every source ever written on your topic, and you shouldn’t. Remember that your goal is to develop and answer your specific research question. When you have a good sense of how your argument fits into the existing conversation, you can stop.

How do you know when enough is enough? Here are some diagnostic questions to help you answer the question: “When Can I Stop Researching?”

It’s not enough to use secondary sources merely for factual or historical information, although this is certainly one thing that sources can do for you. It’s also not enough to simply say “I agree” or “I disagree” with what other scholars have written, although this can be a starting place for developing a tentative research question and even a tentative thesis. Through thoughtful selection of and engagement with secondary sources, you can participate in ongoing critical conversations and even propel them in new directions. (Of course, the initial phases of your attempt to enter one of these conversations might reveal to you that you need to find different or additional sources!)

You might begin by considering how your sources are using their own sources . They probably cite other research to support their own claims (“Yes, and…”), to make a new claim instead (“No, because…”), or acknowledge other arguments in order to show a critical “gap” in the conversation, which their own argument will fill (“Although X and Y, nonetheless Z…”). In turn, you can use the specifics of their critical positioning to situate yourself in the discussion.

There are any number of ways of navigating secondary sources effectively , most of them involving either limited alignment or partial dissent. Some of these modes of engagement include adopting a term, adapting a theory, and changing the question, using moves that might be described as “picking a fight,” “drawing battle lines,” “piggybacking,” “leapfrogging,” and “matchmaking.” Here are two overviews of basic maneuvers and fundamental strategies for using secondary sources to develop an argument.

In order to effectively use your secondary sources to develop an argument, you need to clearly and gracefully integrate material from those sources into your sentences. Whether you paraphrase, quote, or summarize this material, you must fully signpost its relation to your argument, whether via limited alignment or focused dissent. As when you are making an argument about a primary text , you need to ensure that you are analyzing your source rather than leaving it undigested for your reader. Toward that end, there are a few things you should consider when integrating sources:

Evaluate whether you need to quote, paraphrase, or summarize . Here are some tips on when and how to summarize effectively. And here is some advice for determining whether paraphrasing or quoting will best serve your purposes.
When paraphrasing, be sure to do so accurately and fairly . You can practice this skill by doing this quick paraphrasing exercise . Just as when you quote word-for-word from a text, it is crucial to avoid plagiarizing when paraphrasing . For more information on avoiding plagiarism when quoting and paraphrasing, jump to the next section, “How do I responsibly cite my sources and avoid plagiarism?”
Always be sure to Introduce, Cite, and Explain (“ICE,”for short) your evidence! Another way that you can ICE your evidence is by “sandwiching ” it between a claim and analysis, much as you would introduce and analyze a primary text.
Familiarize yourself with guidelines about when quoting is most effective rhetorically and how to avoid quoting extraneous material . Determine which type of quotation —a block, spliced, or signaled quote—best suits your purposes.
Before you submit your essay, be sure to review the nuts and bolts of integrating source material into your prose, i ncluding using proper punctuation. Bonus: here’s a list of signal verbs and phrases to help you synthesize the words and ideas of other scholars.

Whenever you use language, ideas, or arguments from others, you need to cite them. The Berkeley Campus Student Code of Conduct frames improper citation as a form of academic misconduct —failure to cite one’s sources properly constitutes the theft of intellectual property. Plagiarism can make you subject to penalties ranging from failing an assignment to failing a course. Under some circumstances, suspension or even dismissal from the university may be imposed as a sanction.

Correct citation is not only a matter of personal and scholarly integrity. There’s another important reason to cite the arguments of other scholars who have written on your topic: citing them accurately and fully allows other scholars to track down those sources themselves . . . and it also allows you to check your own work. This practice might be compared to writing a detailed account of your experimental method in the sciences—citation is what gives research in the humanities its “replicability.” In sum, citation allows the scholarly conversation to continue moving forward.

What counts as plagiarism? It can take a wide variety of forms, not just the act of submitting the work of another person as your own. Copying language directly from a source, like “patch-working” together sentences or paragraphs or ideas from multiple sources, is also plagiarism. And paraphrasing or rewording of sources without attribution can also be considered plagiarism. Even if you discover that a source makes the same point that you made first on your own, you still have to cite it!

The easiest way to avoid plagiarism? If you’re in doubt about whether or not you should cite something, cite it! Accidental plagiarism is still considered plagiarism and is subject to the same repercussions. Keeping scrupulous notes throughout the research and writing process will help you to remember which ideas and phrasings are your own and which came directly from your sources.

There are several different formats for citing sources; your instructor will tell you which style—MLA style, Chicago, style etc.—to use. For more details on MLA style, the most common citation format in the humanities, try the Purdue OWL or The MLA Style Center .

There is a wealth of resources–guides, grants, mentoring, awards, and more–for undergraduate research across the humanities at UC Berkeley. Here are some of the best-known ones, though you may be able to find others under the auspices of specific departments or programs.

You can begin searching for materials through the Library Guide to Research , which is organized by discipline or area of study. You can also find here the contact information for the particular UC Berkeley librarian who is an expert on research offerings in each subject area, and who can guide you to these resources. There are many research databases and subject-specific guides listed here under each heading. One that you won’t find listed there, A Guide to the Archive Resources of the Bay Area , lists some of the primary research offerings at UC Berkeley’s Bancroft Library and other university archives around the Bay.

The Office of Undergraduate Research and Scholarships (OURS) is a clearing house for information about university-wide research grants and mentoring programs across the disciplines including the Haas Scholars Program , Student Mentoring and Research Teams (SMART), Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF), Underrepresented Researchers of Color (UROC), and Undergraduate Research Apprentices Project (URAP). They have databases with information about many other internal and external grants and programs, as well as offering help with finding and applying for these. Don’t forget to check with individual departments for major-specific prizes. UC Berkeley’s English Department, for example, offers travel grants for undergraduates to attend conferences and to do research at archives elsewhere in the U.S. and abroad.

When your research is done or close to being finished (the submission deadline is in mid-April!), you should consider applying for the Library Prize for Undergraduate Research .

For additional materials, go to Teaching Research in the For Instructors section of this website.

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100 Fascinating Humanities Research Topics and Ideas

Table of Contents

Humanities research is essential to understand different cultures, explore human behavior, and improve society. Typically, humanities is a broad academic discipline that focuses on the various aspects of human society and culture including philosophy, literature, art, history, languages, and religion. So, it might be difficult to identify one perfect topic to successfully perform humanities research. However, this problem can be fixed easily. In this blog, we have published a list of the latest humanities research topics and ideas. Additionally, we have shared certain tactics to find a good topic for humanities research.

If you struggle to spot an appropriate humanities research topic, take a look at this blog. Here, you will get exclusive ideas for humanities research.

Tips for Selecting a Humanities Research Topic

With the right humanities research topic, you can engage and impress the target audience. In case, you are confused about how to choose a perfect humanities research topic, follow these tips.

Pick a topic that is related to your passion. Some humanities areas to examine include philosophy, anthropology, political science, sociology, and others.
Choose a topic that is feasible to investigate within the allotted time and has a broad research scope.
Find out gaps in the existing literature on a topic. This will provide your research with a unique perspective and enable you to make a valuable contribution to the field.
Concentrate on a topic that contains a variety of reliable sources to gather references and data.
Select a topic that aligns with your research methodology. It can be either qualitative or quantitative.
Think about the importance of the topic you select. When you choose a topic with a broader scope and significance, you can make your research more meaningful.
Consult your academic advisor, mentor, or professor for assistance and advice. They can provide useful insights into new research topics , feedback on your ideas, and recommendations for further investigation.

List of the Best Humanities Research Topics

The following are some excellent humanities topics that you might research and write about.

Interesting Humanities Research Topics

Explore the role of women in the French Revolution.
Discuss the philosophy of art and aesthetics.
Explain the influence of postmodernism on literature.
Discuss the impact of language on thoughts and perception.
Examine the link between environment and culture.
Explore the use of technology in archaeology.
Discuss the cultural significance of Jazz Music.
Explain the role of gender and sexuality in popular culture.
Examine the relationship between religion and politics.
Discuss the cultural significance of tattoos.
Explain the cultural importance of food.
Explore the role of art in social justice movements.
Discuss the history and cultural significance of street art and graffiti.
Analyze the role of museums in shaping cultural identity.
Examine the impact of colonialism on indigenous cultures.

Captivating Humanities Research Ideas

Discuss the impact of the Cold War on American Society.
Explore the concept of Justice in political philosophy.
Conduct a comparative study of world religions.
Analyze the impact of globalization on cultural identity.
Examine the impact of music on emotional and cognitive processes.
Explore communication in an intercultural context.
Discuss the influence of globalization on local cultures and traditions.
Describe the use of music in cultural and religious rituals.
Explore the art of storytelling in various cultures.
Analyze how racism affects a family unit.
Discuss the influence of Eastern philosophy on Western cultures.
Explore the conflict between social order and religion.
Discuss the impact of television on modern culture.
Explain how modern photography has changed the culture.
Examine the impact of the theater of the absurd on modern culture.

Also Read: 190 Unique Philosophy Research Topics

Excellent Humanities Research Ideas

Discuss the cultural importance of the Renaissance.
Explain how race is represented in literature.
Examine the link between media and culture.
Discuss the role of film in shaping cultural identity.
Explore the process of reincarnation in different religions.
Determine the cultural differences between Latin American countries.
Analyze the impact of graphic novels on literacy.
Discuss the impact of animal rights on American culture.
Present the representation of humanities and culture in the Bible.
Explain how environmental surroundings affect the culture.

Unique Humanities Research Paper Topics

Analyze the social and economic impact of the Industrial Revolution.
Explain how women are portrayed in media and popular culture.
Examine the impact of community volunteer programs on youth.
Analyze the influence of the Islamic region on American culture.
Present the different definitions of Freedom across the world.
Examine the influence of science on humanities over the centuries.
Explain how different cultures across the world perceive and handle death.
Explore how humanity was represented in the art of the Renaissance.
Discuss the interesting aspects of European culture.
Discuss the political and social implications of design.

Latest Humanities Research Ideas

Discuss the ethics of Artificial Intelligence.
Examine the impact of social media on self-expression.
Present the history of computing in the humanities.
Explore the future of humanity in the extraterrestrial world.
Explain how the Gothic genre has captured new readers.
Discuss the influence of the Harlem Renaissance on African American culture.
Explain how the instability present within the political system affects the movie industry
Discuss the factors that cause philosophical anarchism.
Analyze the effects of cultural assimilation.
Explain how humanities influence the use of alternative medicines.

Research Topics on Humanities and Arts

Examine the influence of the avant-garde on modern art.
Explore the cultural significance of ancient art.
Examine the impact of technology on contemporary art.
Discuss the influence of music on modern culture and society.
Explain how artists influence the war.
Examine the influence of the Beat Generation on modern art.
Explain how Japanese art influenced the country’s clothing.
Explore the influence of ancient art on current artistic trends.
Analyze the impact of the printing press on the spread of art.
Study religious influence in 19 th -century European art.

Digital Humanities Research Topics

Examine the impact of digital technology on the humanities.
Discuss the ethics of digital humanities research.
Take a look at text mining and computational analysis in the humanities.
Explain how digital access to information affects culture.
Study ancient texts through digital technologies.
Explain how digital technologies help to archive archaeological data.
Explore the extent of the digital revolution in human society.
Examine the potential of digital academic data.
Analyze the future of global communication in the global world.
Explore the role of digital tools in mapping underground structures.

Also Read: 100 Excellent Medical Research Topics and Ideas

Medical Humanities Research Topics

Explore the use of humanities-based interventions in medical education.
Explain how medical theories have been represented in art.
Explore the role of narrative medicine in healthcare.
Evaluate how literature influences the use of marijuana for medical regions.
Explain how medical addictions are portrayed in literature
Investigate the rise of confidentiality agreements in the medical field.
Analyze Religious impact on the medical community.
Examine the impact art has had on growing the medical community
Compare Medical depictions in art versus religion.
Explore medical practices in the field of battle.

The Bottom Line

Choose any topic or idea that interests you from the list above and write a fantastic humanities research paper. In case, you have not yet found the appropriate topic for your humanities research or if you require humanities research help from an expert, do not hesitate to contact us .

We have subject professionals in our team to provide high-quality humanities assignment help online according to your requirements at an affordable price. Especially with the assistance of our scholarly writers, you may complete your humanities research paper on time without plagiarism and improve your scores.

100 Outstanding Education Research Topics and Ideas

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Jacob Smith guides students with writing research paper topics and theses at greatassignmenthelp.com. Read about the author from this page

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Conducting research.

The Process
Step 1: Exploring an idea
Step 2: Finding background info.
Step 3: Gathering more info.
Get it This link opens in a new window
Step 5: Evaluating your sources
Step 6: Citing your sources
FAQs This link opens in a new window
Library Vocabulary

Researching in the Humanities

Recommended research guides.

Research in the Social Sciences
Research in the Sciences

Subject Librarians

The staff at Reference Help Desk can also help you finding appropriate sources for background information. You are also welcome to contact a Subject Librarian for assistance:

Subject Librarians, alphabetical listing

Subject Librarians, subject listing

The fields in the Humanities discipline generally include the visual and performing arts, philosophy, literature, religion, history, languages, art history, and classics. Although research methods differ among the Humanities, the Social Sciences, and the Sciences, any research project in any discipline starts with curiosity and a hypothesis. Often research topics are interdisciplinary and may include multiple subject areas and methods from more than just one discipline.

When beginning a research project in the humanities, you must develop a deep knowledge base in a subject area, choose original sources to examine, locate and evaluate sources that also explore your areas of interest, and then come to your own original conclusions. Libraries can help you find the material you need to get started. The research guides listed on the right are created by WUSTL Subject Librarians. Subject Librarians have expertise in both searching techniques and academic fields, and their online guides suggest resources for the different phases of the research process: 1) Use background sources to establish your knowledge base. These could be subject encyclopedias, key works in a field, bibliographies, etc. 2) Select original sources, commonly referred to as primary sources, for your analysis. Primary sources are simply original works, e.g., novels, photographs, diaries, correspondence, advertisements, eyewitness accounts. 3) Find articles, reviews, and books that analyze primary sources. These are known as secondary sources. Then, synthesize all this information with your own thinking and draw your original conclusions, thus creating new research in the field.

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What is Humanities Research?

UW English majors at the 2013 Rutgers English Diversity Institute

Research in the humanities is frequently misunderstood. When we think of research, what immediately comes to mind for many of us is a laboratory setting, with white-coated scientists hunched over microscopes. Because research in the humanities is often a rather solitary activity, it can be difficult for newcomers to gain a sense of what research looks like within the scope of English Studies. (For examples, see Student Research Profiles .)

A common misconception about research is reinforced when we view it solely in terms of the discovery of things previously unknown (such as a new species or an archaelogical artifact) rather than as a process that includes the reinterpretation or rediscovery of known artifacts (such as texts and other cultural products) from a critical or creative perspective to generate innovative art or new analyses. Fundamental to the concept of research is precisely this creation of something new. In the humanities, this might consist of literary authorship, which creates new knowledge in the form of art, or scholarly research, which adds new knowledge by examining texts and other cultural artifacts in the pursuit of particular lines of scholarly inquiry.

Research is often narrowly construed as an activity that will eventually result in a tangible product aimed at solving a world or social problem. Instead, research has many aims and outcomes and is a discipline-specific process, based upon the methods, conventions, and critical frameworks inherent in particular academic areas. In the humanities, the products of research are predominantly intellectual and intangible, with the results contributing to an academic discipline and also informing other disciplines, a process which often effects individual or social change over time.

The University of Washington Undergraduate Research Program provides this basic definition of research:

"Very generally speaking, most research is characterized by the evidence-based exploration of a question or hypothesis that is important to those in the discipline in which the work is being done. Students, then, must know something about the research methodology of a discipline (what constitutes "evidence" and how do you obtain it) and how to decide if a question or line of inquiry that is interesting to that student is also important to the discipline, to be able to embark on a research project."

While individual research remains the most prevalent form in the humanities, collaborative and cross-disciplinary research does occur. One example is the "Modern Girl Around the World" project, in which a group of six primary UW researchers from various humanities and social sciences disciplines explored the international emergence of the figure of the Modern Girl in the early 20th century. Examples of other research clusters are "The Race/Knowledge Project: Anti-Racist Praxis in the Global University," "The Asian American Studies Research Cluster," " The Queer + Public + Performance Project ," " The Moving Images Research Group ," to name a few.

English Studies comprises, or contains elements of, many subdisciplines. A few examples of areas in which our faculty and students engage are Textual Studies , Digital Humanities , American Studies , Language and Rhetoric , Cultural Studies , Critical Theory , and Medieval Studies . Each UW English professor engages in research in one or more specialty areas. You can read about English faculty specializations, research, and publications in the English Department Profiles to gain a sense of the breadth of current work being performed by Department researchers.

Undergraduates embarking on an independent research project work under the mentorship of one or more faculty members. Quite often this occurs when an advanced student completes an upper-division class and becomes fascinated by a particular, more specific line of inquiry, leading to additional investigation in an area beyond the classroom. This also occurs when students complete the English Honors Program , which culminates in a guided research-based thesis. In order for faculty members to agree to mentor a student, the project proposal must introduce specific approaches and lines of inquiry, and must be deemed sufficiently well defined and original enough to contribute to the discipline. If a faculty member in English has agreed to support your project proposal and serve as your mentor, credit is available through ENGL 499.

Beyond English Department resources, another source of information is the UW Undergraduate Research Program , which sponsors the annual Undergraduate Research Symposium . They also offer a one-credit course called Research Exposed (GEN ST 391) , in which a variety of faculty speakers discuss their research and provide information about research methods. Another great campus resource is the Simpson Center for the Humanities which supports interdisciplinary study. A number of our students have also been awarded Mary Gates Research Scholarships .

Each year, undergraduate English majors participate in the UW's Annual Undergraduate Research Symposium as well as other symposia around the nation. Here are some research abstracts from the symposia proceedings archive by recent English-major participants.

UW English Majors Recently Presenting at the UW's Annual Undergraduate Research Symposium

For additional examples, see Student Profiles and Past Honors Students' Thesis Projects .

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Home » Humanities Research – Types, Methods and Examples

Humanities Research – Types, Methods and Examples

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Humanities Research

Definition:

Humanities research is a systematic and critical investigation of human culture, values, beliefs, and practices, including the study of literature, philosophy, history, art, languages, religion, and other aspects of human experience.

Types of Humanities Research

Types of Humanities Research are as follows:

Historical Research

This type of research involves studying the past to understand how societies and cultures have evolved over time. Historical research may involve examining primary sources such as documents, artifacts, and other cultural products, as well as secondary sources such as scholarly articles and books.

Cultural Studies

This type of research involves examining the cultural expressions and practices of a particular society or community. Cultural studies may involve analyzing literature, art, music, film, and other forms of cultural production to understand their social and cultural significance.

Linguistics Research

This type of research involves studying language and its role in shaping cultural and social practices. Linguistics research may involve analyzing the structure and use of language, as well as its historical development and cultural variations.

Anthropological Research

This type of research involves studying human cultures and societies from a comparative and cross-cultural perspective. Anthropological research may involve ethnographic fieldwork, participant observation, interviews, and other qualitative research methods.

Philosophy Research

This type of research involves examining fundamental questions about the nature of reality, knowledge, morality, and other philosophical concepts. Philosophy research may involve analyzing philosophical texts, conducting thought experiments, and engaging in philosophical discourse.

Art History Research

This type of research involves studying the history and significance of art and visual culture. Art history research may involve analyzing the formal and aesthetic qualities of art, as well as its historical context and cultural significance.

Literary Studies Research

This type of research involves analyzing literature and other forms of written expression. Literary studies research may involve examining the formal and structural qualities of literature, as well as its historical and cultural context.

Digital Humanities Research

This type of research involves using digital technologies to study and analyze cultural artifacts and practices. Digital humanities research may involve analyzing large datasets, creating digital archives, and using computational methods to study cultural phenomena.

Data Collection Methods

Data Collection Methods in Humanities Research are as follows:

Interviews : This method involves conducting face-to-face, phone or virtual interviews with individuals who are knowledgeable about the research topic. Interviews may be structured, semi-structured, or unstructured, depending on the research questions and objectives. Interviews are often used in qualitative research to gain in-depth insights and perspectives.
Surveys : This method involves distributing questionnaires or surveys to a sample of individuals or groups. Surveys may be conducted in person, through the mail, or online. Surveys are often used in quantitative research to collect data on attitudes, behaviors, and other characteristics of a population.
Observations : This method involves observing and recording behavior or events in a natural or controlled setting. Observations may be structured or unstructured, and may involve the use of audio or video recording equipment. Observations are often used in qualitative research to collect data on social practices and behaviors.
Archival Research: This method involves collecting data from historical documents, artifacts, and other cultural products. Archival research may involve accessing physical archives or online databases. Archival research is often used in historical and cultural studies to study the past.
Case Studies : This method involves examining a single case or a small number of cases in depth. Case studies may involve collecting data through interviews, observations, and archival research. Case studies are often used in cultural studies, anthropology, and sociology to understand specific social or cultural phenomena.
Focus Groups : This method involves bringing together a small group of individuals to discuss a particular topic or issue. Focus groups may be conducted in person or online, and are often used in qualitative research to gain insights into social and cultural practices and attitudes.
Participatory Action Research : This method involves engaging with individuals or communities in the research process, with the goal of promoting social change or addressing a specific social problem. Participatory action research may involve conducting focus groups, interviews, or surveys, as well as involving participants in data analysis and interpretation.

Data Analysis Methods

Some common data analysis methods used in humanities research:

Content Analysis : This method involves analyzing the content of texts or cultural artifacts to identify patterns, themes, and meanings. Content analysis is often used in literary studies, media studies, and cultural studies to analyze the meanings and representations conveyed in cultural products.
Discourse Analysis: This method involves analyzing the use of language and discourse to understand social and cultural practices and identities. Discourse analysis may involve analyzing the structure, meaning, and power dynamics of language and discourse in different social contexts.
Narrative Analysis: This method involves analyzing the structure, content, and meaning of narratives in different cultural contexts. Narrative analysis may involve analyzing the themes, symbols, and narrative devices used in literary texts or other cultural products.
Ethnographic Analysis : This method involves analyzing ethnographic data collected through participant observation, interviews, and other qualitative methods. Ethnographic analysis may involve identifying patterns and themes in the data, as well as interpreting the meaning and significance of social and cultural practices.
Statistical Analysis: This method involves using statistical methods to analyze quantitative data collected through surveys or other quantitative methods. Statistical analysis may involve using descriptive statistics to describe the characteristics of the data, or inferential statistics to test hypotheses and make inferences about a population.
Network Analysis: This method involves analyzing the structure and dynamics of social networks to understand social and cultural practices and relationships. Network analysis may involve analyzing patterns of social interaction, communication, and influence.
Visual Analysis : This method involves analyzing visual data, such as images, photographs, and art, to understand their cultural and social significance. Visual analysis may involve analyzing the formal and aesthetic qualities of visual products, as well as their historical and cultural context.

Examples of Humanities Research

Some Examples of Humanities Research are as follows:

Literary research on diversity and representation: Scholars of literature are exploring the representation of different groups in literature and how those representations have changed over time. They are also studying how literature can promote empathy and understanding across different cultures and communities.
Philosophical research on ethics and technology: Philosophers are examining the ethical implications of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and biotechnology. They are asking questions about what it means to be human in a world where technology is becoming increasingly advanced.
Anthropological research on cultural identity: Anthropologists are studying the ways in which culture shapes individual and collective identities. They are exploring how cultural practices and beliefs can shape social and political systems, as well as how individuals and communities resist or adapt to dominant cultural norms.
Linguistic research on language and communication: Linguists are studying the ways in which language use and communication can impact social and political power dynamics. They are exploring how language can reinforce or challenge social hierarchies and how language use can reflect cultural values and norms.

How to Conduct Humanities Research

Conducting humanities research involves a number of steps, including:

Define your research question or topic : Identify a question or topic that you want to explore in-depth. This can be a broad or narrow topic, depending on the scope of your research project.
Conduct a literature review: Before beginning your research, read extensively on your topic. This will help you understand the existing scholarship and identify gaps in the literature that your research can address.
Develop a research methodology: Determine the methods you will use to collect and analyze data, such as interviews, surveys, archival research, or textual analysis. Your methodology should be appropriate to your research question and topic.
Collect data: Collect data using the methods you have chosen. This may involve conducting interviews, surveys, or archival research, or analyzing primary or secondary sources.
Analyze data: Once you have collected data, analyze it using appropriate methods. This may involve coding, categorizing, or comparing data, or interpreting texts or other sources.
Draw conclusions: Based on your analysis, draw conclusions about your research question or topic. These conclusions should be supported by your data and should contribute to existing scholarship.
Communicate your findings : Communicate your findings through writing, presentations, or other forms of dissemination. Your work should be clearly written and accessible to a broad audience.

Applications of Humanities Research

Humanities research has many practical applications in various fields, including:

Policy-making: Humanities research can inform policy-making by providing insights into social, cultural, and historical contexts. It can help policymakers understand the impact of policies on communities and identify potential unintended consequences.
Education: Humanities research can inform curriculum development and pedagogy. It can provide insights into how to teach critical thinking, cross-cultural understanding, and communication skills.
Cultural heritage preservation: Humanities research can help to preserve cultural heritage by documenting and analyzing cultural practices, traditions, and artifacts. It can also help to promote cultural tourism and support local economies.
Business and industry: Humanities research can provide insights into consumer behavior, cultural preferences, and historical trends that can inform marketing, branding, and product design.
Healthcare : Humanities research can contribute to the development of patient-centered healthcare by exploring the impact of social and cultural factors on health and illness. It can also help to promote cross-cultural understanding and empathy in healthcare settings.
Social justice: Humanities research can contribute to social justice by providing insights into the experiences of marginalized communities, documenting historical injustices, and promoting cross-cultural understanding.

Purpose of Humanities Research

The purpose of humanities research is to deepen our understanding of human experience, culture, and history. Humanities research aims to explore the human condition and to provide insights into the diversity of human perspectives, values, and beliefs.

Humanities research can contribute to knowledge in various fields, including history, literature, philosophy, anthropology, and more. It can help us to understand how societies and cultures have evolved over time, how they have been shaped by various factors, and how they continue to change.

Humanities research also aims to promote critical thinking and creativity. It encourages us to question assumptions, to challenge dominant narratives, and to seek out new perspectives. Humanities research can help us to develop empathy and understanding for different cultures and communities, and to appreciate the richness and complexity of human experience.

Overall, the purpose of humanities research is to contribute to a deeper understanding of ourselves, our communities, and our world. It helps us to grapple with fundamental questions about the human experience and to develop the skills and insights needed to address the challenges of the future.

When to use Humanities Research

Humanities research can be used in various contexts where a deeper understanding of human experience, culture, and history is required. Here are some examples of when humanities research may be appropriate:

Exploring social and cultural phenomena: Humanities research can be used to explore social and cultural phenomena such as art, literature, religion, and politics. It can help to understand how these phenomena have evolved over time and how they relate to broader social, cultural, and historical contexts.
Understanding historical events: Humanities research can be used to understand historical events such as wars, revolutions, and social movements. It can provide insights into the motivations, experiences, and perspectives of the people involved, and help to contextualize these events within broader historical trends.
Promoting cultural understanding : Humanities research can be used to promote cross-cultural understanding and to challenge stereotypes and biases. It can provide insights into the diversity of human experiences, values, and beliefs, and help to build empathy and mutual respect across different cultures and communities.
Informing policy-making: Humanities research can be used to inform policy-making by providing insights into social, cultural, and historical contexts. It can help policymakers understand the impact of policies on communities and identify potential unintended consequences.
Promoting innovation and creativity : Humanities research can be used to promote innovation and creativity in various fields. It can help to generate new ideas, perspectives, and approaches to complex problems, and to challenge conventional thinking and assumptions.

Characteristics of Humanities Research

Some of the key characteristics of humanities research:

Focus on human experience: Humanities research focuses on the study of human experience, culture, and history. It aims to understand the human condition, explore human values and beliefs, and analyze the ways in which societies and cultures have evolved over time.
Interpretive approach: Humanities research takes an interpretive approach to data analysis. It seeks to understand the meaning behind texts, artifacts, and cultural practices, and to explore the multiple perspectives and contexts that shape human experience.
Contextualization : Humanities research emphasizes the importance of contextualization. It seeks to understand how social, cultural, and historical factors shape human experience, and to place individual phenomena within broader cultural and historical contexts.
Subjectivity : Humanities research recognizes the subjective nature of human experience. It acknowledges that human values, beliefs, and experiences are shaped by individual perspectives, and that these perspectives can vary across cultures, communities, and time periods.
Narrative analysis : Humanities research often uses narrative analysis to explore the stories, myths, and cultural narratives that shape human experience. It seeks to understand how these narratives are constructed, how they evolve over time, and how they influence individual and collective identity.
Multi-disciplinary: Humanities research is often interdisciplinary, drawing on a range of disciplines such as history, literature, philosophy, anthropology, and more. It seeks to bring together different perspectives and approaches to understand complex human phenomena.

Advantages of Humanities Research

Some of the key advantages of humanities research:

Promotes critical thinking: Humanities research encourages critical thinking by challenging assumptions and exploring different perspectives. It requires researchers to analyze and interpret complex texts, artifacts, and cultural practices, and to make connections between different phenomena.
Enhances cultural understanding : Humanities research promotes cross-cultural understanding by exploring the diversity of human experiences, values, and beliefs. It helps to challenge stereotypes and biases and to build empathy and mutual respect across different cultures and communities.
Builds historical awareness: Humanities research helps us to understand the historical context of current events and social issues. It provides insights into how societies and cultures have evolved over time and how they have been shaped by various factors, and helps us to contextualize current social, political, and cultural trends.
Contributes to public discourse: Humanities research contributes to public discourse by providing insights into complex social, cultural, and historical phenomena. It helps to inform public policy and public debate by providing evidence-based analysis and insights into social issues and problems.
Promotes creativity and innovation: Humanities research promotes creativity and innovation by challenging conventional thinking and assumptions. It encourages researchers to generate new ideas and perspectives and to explore alternative ways of understanding and addressing complex problems.
Builds communication skills: Humanities research requires strong communication skills, including the ability to analyze and interpret complex texts, artifacts, and cultural practices, and to communicate findings and insights in a clear and compelling way.

Limitations of Humanities Research

Some of the key limitations of humanities research:

Subjectivity: Humanities research relies heavily on interpretation and analysis, which are inherently subjective. Researchers bring their own perspectives, biases, and values to the analysis, which can affect the conclusions they draw.
Lack of generalizability : Humanities research often focuses on specific texts, artifacts, or cultural practices, which can limit the generalizability of findings to other contexts. It is difficult to make broad generalizations based on limited samples, which can be a challenge when trying to draw broader conclusions.
Limited quantitative data : Humanities research often relies on qualitative data, such as texts, images, and cultural practices, which can be difficult to quantify. This can make it difficult to conduct statistical analyses or to draw quantitative conclusions.
Limited replicability: Humanities research often involves in-depth analysis of specific texts, artifacts, or cultural practices, which can make it difficult to replicate studies. This can make it challenging to test the validity of findings or to compare results across studies.
Limited funding: Humanities research may not always receive the same level of funding as other types of research. This can make it challenging for researchers to conduct large-scale studies or to have access to the same resources as other researchers in different fields.
Limited impact : Humanities research may not always have the same level of impact as research in other fields, particularly in terms of policy and practical applications. This can make it challenging for researchers to demonstrate the relevance and impact of their work.

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 113 great research paper topics.

General Education

One of the hardest parts of writing a research paper can be just finding a good topic to write about. Fortunately we've done the hard work for you and have compiled a list of 113 interesting research paper topics. They've been organized into ten categories and cover a wide range of subjects so you can easily find the best topic for you.

In addition to the list of good research topics, we've included advice on what makes a good research paper topic and how you can use your topic to start writing a great paper.

What Makes a Good Research Paper Topic?

Not all research paper topics are created equal, and you want to make sure you choose a great topic before you start writing. Below are the three most important factors to consider to make sure you choose the best research paper topics.

#1: It's Something You're Interested In

A paper is always easier to write if you're interested in the topic, and you'll be more motivated to do in-depth research and write a paper that really covers the entire subject. Even if a certain research paper topic is getting a lot of buzz right now or other people seem interested in writing about it, don't feel tempted to make it your topic unless you genuinely have some sort of interest in it as well.

#2: There's Enough Information to Write a Paper

Even if you come up with the absolute best research paper topic and you're so excited to write about it, you won't be able to produce a good paper if there isn't enough research about the topic. This can happen for very specific or specialized topics, as well as topics that are too new to have enough research done on them at the moment. Easy research paper topics will always be topics with enough information to write a full-length paper.

Trying to write a research paper on a topic that doesn't have much research on it is incredibly hard, so before you decide on a topic, do a bit of preliminary searching and make sure you'll have all the information you need to write your paper.

#3: It Fits Your Teacher's Guidelines

Don't get so carried away looking at lists of research paper topics that you forget any requirements or restrictions your teacher may have put on research topic ideas. If you're writing a research paper on a health-related topic, deciding to write about the impact of rap on the music scene probably won't be allowed, but there may be some sort of leeway. For example, if you're really interested in current events but your teacher wants you to write a research paper on a history topic, you may be able to choose a topic that fits both categories, like exploring the relationship between the US and North Korea. No matter what, always get your research paper topic approved by your teacher first before you begin writing.

113 Good Research Paper Topics

Below are 113 good research topics to help you get you started on your paper. We've organized them into ten categories to make it easier to find the type of research paper topics you're looking for.

Arts/Culture

Discuss the main differences in art from the Italian Renaissance and the Northern Renaissance .
Analyze the impact a famous artist had on the world.
How is sexism portrayed in different types of media (music, film, video games, etc.)? Has the amount/type of sexism changed over the years?
How has the music of slaves brought over from Africa shaped modern American music?
How has rap music evolved in the past decade?
How has the portrayal of minorities in the media changed?

Current Events

What have been the impacts of China's one child policy?
How have the goals of feminists changed over the decades?
How has the Trump presidency changed international relations?
Analyze the history of the relationship between the United States and North Korea.
What factors contributed to the current decline in the rate of unemployment?
What have been the impacts of states which have increased their minimum wage?
How do US immigration laws compare to immigration laws of other countries?
How have the US's immigration laws changed in the past few years/decades?
How has the Black Lives Matter movement affected discussions and view about racism in the US?
What impact has the Affordable Care Act had on healthcare in the US?
What factors contributed to the UK deciding to leave the EU (Brexit)?
What factors contributed to China becoming an economic power?
Discuss the history of Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies (some of which tokenize the S&P 500 Index on the blockchain) .
Do students in schools that eliminate grades do better in college and their careers?
Do students from wealthier backgrounds score higher on standardized tests?
Do students who receive free meals at school get higher grades compared to when they weren't receiving a free meal?
Do students who attend charter schools score higher on standardized tests than students in public schools?
Do students learn better in same-sex classrooms?
How does giving each student access to an iPad or laptop affect their studies?
What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Montessori Method ?
Do children who attend preschool do better in school later on?
What was the impact of the No Child Left Behind act?
How does the US education system compare to education systems in other countries?
What impact does mandatory physical education classes have on students' health?
Which methods are most effective at reducing bullying in schools?
Do homeschoolers who attend college do as well as students who attended traditional schools?
Does offering tenure increase or decrease quality of teaching?
How does college debt affect future life choices of students?
Should graduate students be able to form unions?

What are different ways to lower gun-related deaths in the US?
How and why have divorce rates changed over time?
Is affirmative action still necessary in education and/or the workplace?
Should physician-assisted suicide be legal?
How has stem cell research impacted the medical field?
How can human trafficking be reduced in the United States/world?
Should people be able to donate organs in exchange for money?
Which types of juvenile punishment have proven most effective at preventing future crimes?
Has the increase in US airport security made passengers safer?
Analyze the immigration policies of certain countries and how they are similar and different from one another.
Several states have legalized recreational marijuana. What positive and negative impacts have they experienced as a result?
Do tariffs increase the number of domestic jobs?
Which prison reforms have proven most effective?
Should governments be able to censor certain information on the internet?
Which methods/programs have been most effective at reducing teen pregnancy?
What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Keto diet?
How effective are different exercise regimes for losing weight and maintaining weight loss?
How do the healthcare plans of various countries differ from each other?
What are the most effective ways to treat depression ?
What are the pros and cons of genetically modified foods?
Which methods are most effective for improving memory?
What can be done to lower healthcare costs in the US?
What factors contributed to the current opioid crisis?
Analyze the history and impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic .
Are low-carbohydrate or low-fat diets more effective for weight loss?
How much exercise should the average adult be getting each week?
Which methods are most effective to get parents to vaccinate their children?
What are the pros and cons of clean needle programs?
How does stress affect the body?
Discuss the history of the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.
What were the causes and effects of the Salem Witch Trials?
Who was responsible for the Iran-Contra situation?
How has New Orleans and the government's response to natural disasters changed since Hurricane Katrina?
What events led to the fall of the Roman Empire?
What were the impacts of British rule in India ?
Was the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki necessary?
What were the successes and failures of the women's suffrage movement in the United States?
What were the causes of the Civil War?
How did Abraham Lincoln's assassination impact the country and reconstruction after the Civil War?
Which factors contributed to the colonies winning the American Revolution?
What caused Hitler's rise to power?
Discuss how a specific invention impacted history.
What led to Cleopatra's fall as ruler of Egypt?
How has Japan changed and evolved over the centuries?
What were the causes of the Rwandan genocide ?

Why did Martin Luther decide to split with the Catholic Church?
Analyze the history and impact of a well-known cult (Jonestown, Manson family, etc.)
How did the sexual abuse scandal impact how people view the Catholic Church?
How has the Catholic church's power changed over the past decades/centuries?
What are the causes behind the rise in atheism/ agnosticism in the United States?
What were the influences in Siddhartha's life resulted in him becoming the Buddha?
How has media portrayal of Islam/Muslims changed since September 11th?

Science/Environment

How has the earth's climate changed in the past few decades?
How has the use and elimination of DDT affected bird populations in the US?
Analyze how the number and severity of natural disasters have increased in the past few decades.
Analyze deforestation rates in a certain area or globally over a period of time.
How have past oil spills changed regulations and cleanup methods?
How has the Flint water crisis changed water regulation safety?
What are the pros and cons of fracking?
What impact has the Paris Climate Agreement had so far?
What have NASA's biggest successes and failures been?
How can we improve access to clean water around the world?
Does ecotourism actually have a positive impact on the environment?
Should the US rely on nuclear energy more?
What can be done to save amphibian species currently at risk of extinction?
What impact has climate change had on coral reefs?
How are black holes created?
Are teens who spend more time on social media more likely to suffer anxiety and/or depression?
How will the loss of net neutrality affect internet users?
Analyze the history and progress of self-driving vehicles.
How has the use of drones changed surveillance and warfare methods?
Has social media made people more or less connected?
What progress has currently been made with artificial intelligence ?
Do smartphones increase or decrease workplace productivity?
What are the most effective ways to use technology in the classroom?
How is Google search affecting our intelligence?
When is the best age for a child to begin owning a smartphone?
Has frequent texting reduced teen literacy rates?

How to Write a Great Research Paper

Even great research paper topics won't give you a great research paper if you don't hone your topic before and during the writing process. Follow these three tips to turn good research paper topics into great papers.

#1: Figure Out Your Thesis Early

Before you start writing a single word of your paper, you first need to know what your thesis will be. Your thesis is a statement that explains what you intend to prove/show in your paper. Every sentence in your research paper will relate back to your thesis, so you don't want to start writing without it!

As some examples, if you're writing a research paper on if students learn better in same-sex classrooms, your thesis might be "Research has shown that elementary-age students in same-sex classrooms score higher on standardized tests and report feeling more comfortable in the classroom."

If you're writing a paper on the causes of the Civil War, your thesis might be "While the dispute between the North and South over slavery is the most well-known cause of the Civil War, other key causes include differences in the economies of the North and South, states' rights, and territorial expansion."

#2: Back Every Statement Up With Research

Remember, this is a research paper you're writing, so you'll need to use lots of research to make your points. Every statement you give must be backed up with research, properly cited the way your teacher requested. You're allowed to include opinions of your own, but they must also be supported by the research you give.

#3: Do Your Research Before You Begin Writing

You don't want to start writing your research paper and then learn that there isn't enough research to back up the points you're making, or, even worse, that the research contradicts the points you're trying to make!

Get most of your research on your good research topics done before you begin writing. Then use the research you've collected to create a rough outline of what your paper will cover and the key points you're going to make. This will help keep your paper clear and organized, and it'll ensure you have enough research to produce a strong paper.

What's Next?

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Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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Organizing Research for Arts and Humanities Papers and Theses

General Guide Information
Developing a Topic
What are Primary and Secondary Sources
What are Scholarly and Non-Scholarly Sources
Writing an Abstract
Writing Academic Book Reviews
Writing A Literature Review
Using Images and other Media

Critical Engagement

Note: these recommendations are geared toward researchers in the arts or humanities.

Developing a research topic is an iterative process, even for a short paper. This is a process that emerges in stages, and one which requires critical (but not criticizing) engagement with the evidence, literature, and prior research. The evidence can be an object, an artifact, a historic event, an idea, a theoretical framework, or existing interpretations.

Ultimately, you want to be able to pose a research question that you will then investigate in your paper.

If you are writing a paper for a course, the initial critical ideas and theoretical frameworks may come from your course readings. Pay attention to footnotes and bibliographies in your readings, because they can help you identify other potential sources of information.

As you are thinking about your topic, consider what, if anything, has already been written. If a lot of literature exists on your topic, you will need to narrow your topic down, and decide how to make it interesting for your reader. Regurgitating or synthesizing what has already been said is very unlikely to be exciting both for you and for those who will be reading your wok. If there is little or no literature on your topic, you will need to think how to frame it so as to take advantage of existing theories in the discipline. You may also be able to take advantage of existing scholarship on related topics.

Types of Research Papers

There are two common types of research papers in the arts and humanities: expository and argumentative . In an expository paper you develop an idea or critical "reading" of something, and then support your idea or "reading" with evidence. In an argumentative essay you propose an argument or a framework to engage in a dialog with and to refute an existing interpretation, and provide evidence to support your argument/interpretation, as well as evidence to refute an existing argument/interpretation. For further elaboration on expository and argumentative papers, as well and for examples of both types of essays, check the book titled The Art of Writing About Art , co-authored by Suzanne Hudson and Nancy Noonan-Morrissey, originally published in 2001. Note that particular disciplines in the arts or humanities may have other specialized types of frameworks for research.

Also, remember that a research paper is not "merely an elaborately footnoted presentation of what a dozen scholars have already said about a topic; it is a thoughtful evaluation of the available evidence , and so is, finally, an expression of what the author [i.e., you] thinks the evidence adds up to." [Sylvan Barnet, A Short Guide to Writing About Art (New York: Pearson/Longman, 2005), 238-239.]

If you select a broad topic

If a lot has been written on your topic, perhaps you should consider the following:

why are you interested in this topic?
is there something specific you want to address?
can you offer a different or a more nuanced interpretation?
is there a specific theoretical or methodological perspective that you would like to apply?
can you shed more light on specific evidence or detail(s)?
review scholarship cited in the footnotes/bibliographies of your readings and see if there are lacunae you can address.

If you stick with a broad topic, you run into the danger of over-generalizing or summarizing existing scholarship, both of which have limited value in contemporary arts and humanities research papers. Summarizing is generally useful for providing background information, as well as for literature reviews. However, it should not constitute the bulk of your paper.

If you select a narrow or a very new topic

If you are interested in something very specific or very new, you may find that little has been written about it. You might even find that the same information gets repeated everywhere, because nothing else is available. Consider this an opportunity for you to do unique research, and think of the following:

is there a broader or a related topic that you can investigate in order to circle back and hone in on your chosen topic?
can your topic be critically examined within an existing theoretical or methodological framework?
are you able to draw on another field of study to investigate your topic?
review scholarship cited in the footnotes/bibliographies of the readings. - in other words, engage in citation chaining.
if the pertinent readings you find are not scholarly (this is not necessarily a bad thing), evaluate how you can use them to develop a more scholarly and critical context for investigating your topic.

Citing sources

Remember to keep track of your sources, regardless of the stage of your research. The USC Libraries have an excellent guide to citation styles and to citation management software .

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Agricultural practices
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Eating utensils
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Articles in anthropology.

The Anthropological Index Online (AIO) is published by the Royal Anthropological Institute (RAI) in cooperation with Anthropology Library and Research Centre at the British Museum. It is an index to articles in journals taken by the Library, which incorporates the former RAI holdings, covering all branches and areas of anthropology. In addition, AIO includes journals and periodicals of anthropological interest that are not in the Library’s catalogues. Films held at the Royal Anthropological Institute are equally indexed as part of the bibliography. The Library holds some 4,000 periodical titles (1,500 current). Nearly 650 journals, published in more than 40 languages, are indexed on a continuing basis. Records cover 1957 to the present.

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Bot journalists
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Newspapers' declining revenues
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Press embargoes
Section 230 (Communications Decency Act)
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Social media influencers
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Comprehensive coverage of communication topics in Communication Abstracts and Communication & Mass Media Complete.

Covers major journals in communication, mass media, and other closely-related fields of study as far back as 1915. Includes indexing/abstracting for 600+ journals; full text of 500+ journals.

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1968-present. Journals, books, and governmental & non-governmental reports.

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Indexes literature in linguistics and related disciplines.

Linguistics & Language Behavior Abstracts (LLBA) abstracts and indexes the international literature in linguistics and related disciplines in the language sciences. The database covers all aspects of the study of language including phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax and semantics. Complete coverage is given to various fields of linguistics including descriptive, historical, comparative, theoretical and geographical linguistics. The database provides abstracts of journal articles and citations to book reviews drawn from over 1,500 serials publications, and also provides abstracts of books, book chapters, and dissertations.

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Arab Spring
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Includes full-text journals, reference books, monographs, and conference papers, including those of the International Political Science Association.

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1887-present. Includes journals, books, book chapters, and dissertations in psychology. Short video tutorials on using PsycINFO

Includes the collections APA PsycInfo and APA PsycArticles.

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Anti-vaccination
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Cultural assimilation
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Fashion trends
Flocking behavior
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Internet communities
Nationality
Occupy movement
Online dating
Police brutality
Poverty gap
Social media activism
Social stratification
Spirituality and religion
Stereotypes
Sub-cultures
Superstitions

Provides access to the international literature in sociology, social services, and related disciplines, 1952-present.

Includes the databases Sociological Abstracts, Social Services Abstracts, and Sociology Database, which may each be searched separately. Sociological Abstracts abstracts and indexes the international literature in sociology and related disciplines in the social and behavioral sciences. The database provides abstracts of journal articles and citations to book reviews drawn from over 1,800 serials publications, and also provides abstracts of books, book chapters, dissertations, and conference papers. Many records from key journals in sociology, added to the database since 2002, also include the references cited in the bibliography of the source article. Each individual reference may also have links to an abstract and/or to other papers that cite that reference; these links increase the possibility of finding more potentially relevant articles. These references are linked both within Sociological Abstracts and across other social science databases available on ProQuest. Updated monthly, with approximately 30,000 records added per year. (Description from the publisher's website.)

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Incredible Humanities Research Paper Topics For Students

Table of Contents

As humans, we have an insatiable desire to understand the world around the people who inhabit it and us. From the earliest days of civilisation, we have used various means to express our curiosity, including art, literature, music, philosophy, and religion. Today, we call these fields the humanities, and they continue to be a vital part of our lives and society.

Humanities research topics are as varied as the human experience itself. They encompass everything from the study of ancient civilisations and cultural artefacts to contemporary issues such as climate change, globalisation, and social justice.

Whether you are interested in the history of art, the philosophy of science, or the literature of a particular era, there is a humanities research topic that can captivate your attention and fuel your intellectual curiosity.

One of the most exciting things about humanities research is the way it can challenge our assumptions and broaden our perspectives. By delving into the past and present of different cultures and societies, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and diversity of human experience. We can also develop critical thinking skills, hone our communication abilities, and learn to appreciate the power of creative expression.

Moreover, humanities research topics can be an essential tool for addressing contemporary issues and advancing social change. From analysing the role of media in shaping public opinion to exploring the ethical implications of emerging technologies, the humanities can provide valuable insights and perspectives on some of the most pressing challenges of our time.

In this blog, we will explore some of the most fascinating and thought-provoking humanities research topics. Whether you are a student looking for inspiration for your next research project or a lifelong learner seeking to broaden your horizons, we hope that these ideas will spark your curiosity and inspire you to delve deeper into the world of the humanities.

How To Choose The Right Humanities Research Topics?

Choosing the right humanities research topic is essential for a successful and fulfilling research experience. However, with so many fascinating topics to choose from, it can be challenging to know where to begin. Here are some tips to help you select the right humanities research topic for you.

Explore Your Interests:

Start by exploring topics that genuinely interest you. Consider your passions, hobbies, and personal experiences. Do you love reading novels or studying art history? Have you always been fascinated by philosophy or anthropology? Identifying your interests can help you find a research topic that you will enjoy and be invested in.

Find The Gap:

Look for gaps in the existing literature on a particular topic. What questions have not been answered or explored in-depth? This can provide you with a unique angle for your research, and it can also help you make a significant contribution to your field.

Consult With Your Mentor:

Consult with your academic advisor, mentor, or professor for guidance and advice. They can offer valuable insights into potential research topics, provide feedback on your ideas, and offer suggestions for further exploration.

Consider The Feasibility Of The Topic:

Make sure that the topic you choose is feasible within the time and resources you have available. Consider the scope of the research, the availability of sources, and the practicality of the research methods you will use.

Consider the significance of the topic:

Consider the significance of the topic you choose. Will it make a meaningful contribution to your field or discipline? Will it have broader implications for society or culture? Choosing a topic that has broader significance can make your research more meaningful and impactful.

Brainstorm with peers:

Brainstorm with your peers and colleagues for fresh ideas and perspectives. Collaborating with others can help you identify potential research topics that you may not have considered on your own.

Stay flexible:

Finally, it is essential to remain flexible and open to change. As you delve deeper into your research, you may find that your initial ideas and assumptions need to be revised or adjusted. Staying flexible and open to new ideas and perspectives can lead to more fruitful and meaningful research.

Choosing the right humanities research topic requires a combination of personal interests, research feasibility, and broader significance. By following these tips, you can identify a research topic that is both fulfilling and impactful and that will contribute to your field and to society at large.

Humanities Research Paper Topics

Are you looking for subject specific Humanities research paper topics or type specific topics? You will find everything here. Keep reading!

Subject-Based Humanities Topics For Research

Humanities Research Topics on History
The Role Of Women In The French Revolution
The Impact Of The Cold War On American Society
The Cultural Significance Of The Renaissance
The Influence Of Ancient Greek Democracy On Modern Politics
The Social And Economic Effects Of The Industrial Revolution
Humanities Research Topics In Philosophy
The Ethics Of Artificial Intelligence
The Philosophical Implications Of Quantum Mechanics
The Philosophy Of Consciousness And The Mind-Body Problem
The Concept Of Justice In Political Philosophy
The Philosophy Of Art And Aesthetics.
Humanities Research Paper Topics On Literature
The Representation Of Race In Literature
The Role Of Women In Contemporary Literature
The Impact Of War On Literature
The Use Of Allegory In Literature
The Influence Of Postmodernism On Literature.
Good Research Topics For Humanities On Linguistics
The Impact Of Language On Thought And Perception
The Origins And Development Of Language
The Role Of Language In Culture And Identity
Language Acquisition And Learning
The Impact Of Bilingualism On Cognitive Development.
Humanities Research Topics Based On Religion
Comparative Study Of World Religions
The Relationship Between Religion And Violence
The Role Of Religion In Shaping Social And Political Movements
The Impact Of Religious Beliefs On Health And Well-Being
The Concept Of The Divine In Various Religious Traditions.
Humanities And Arts Research Topics And Art History
The Cultural Significance Of Ancient Art
The Role Of Women In Art History
The Impact Of Technology On Contemporary Art
The Symbolism And Meaning Of Art In Different Cultures
The Influence Of The Avant-Garde On Modern Art.
Humanities Research Paper Topics On Anthropology
Cultural Anthropology And The Study Of Human Societies
The Relationship Between Environment And Culture
Human Evolution And The Origin Of Homo Sapiens
The Impact Of Globalisation On Cultural Identity
The Role Of Anthropology In Contemporary Social Issues.
Humanities Research Topics On Archaeology
The Archaeology Of Ancient Civilisations
The Use Of Technology In Archaeology
The Study Of Human Migration And Settlement Patterns
The Interpretation Of Archaeological Data And Artefacts
The Role Of Archaeology In Heritage Management And Preservation.
Humanities Research Topics On Cultural Studies
Popular Culture And Its Impact On Society
The Relationship Between Media And Culture
The Study Of Subcultures And Countercultures
The Role Of Cultural Institutions In Shaping Cultural Identity
The Impact Of Globalisation On Cultural Diversity.
Digital Humanities Research Paper Topics
The Impact Of Digital Technology On The Humanities
Digital Archives And Their Use In Research
Text Mining And Computational Analysis In The Humanities
The Ethics Of Digital Humanities Research
The Development Of Digital Tools For Humanities Research.
Medical Humanities Research Topics
The Role Of Narrative Medicine In Healthcare
The Relationship Between Medicine And Culture
Medical Ethics And The Treatment Of Vulnerable Populations
The Impact Of Art And Literature On Health And Well-Being
The Use Of Humanities-Based Interventions In Medical Education.
Humanities Research Paper Topics On Musicology
The History And Development Of Classical Music
The Cultural Significance Of Jazz Music
Music And Identity In Popular Culture
The Impact Of Music On Emotional And Cognitive Processes
The Study Of Music In Different Cultures And Traditions.
Humanities Research Paper Topics On Film Studies
The History Of Cinema And Film Technology
The Representation Of Gender And Sexuality In Film
The Role Of Film In Shaping Cultural Identity
Film Theory And Its Impact On Film Criticism
The Influence Of International Cinema On Hollywood.
Humanities Research Paper Topics On Theatre And Performance Studies
The History Of Theater And Performance
The Role Of Theatre In Social And Political Change
Performance Theory And Its Application To Contemporary Theatre
The Relationship Between Theatre And Identity
The Impact Of Globalisation On Theatre And Performance.
Humanities Research Topics On Gender And Sexuality Studies
The Social Construction Of Gender And Sexuality
Queer Theory And Its Application In Gender Studies
Feminism And The Intersection Of Race And Gender
Gender-Based Violence And Its Impact On Society
The Role Of Gender And Sexuality In Popular Culture.
Humanities Research Topics On Communication Studies
The Impact Of Digital Media On Communication
Communication In Intercultural Contexts
The Role Of Language In Communication
The Study Of Persuasion And Rhetoric
The Impact Of Communication On Social Change And Activism.
Humanities Topics For Research On Political Science
Theories Of Democracy And Their Application In Contemporary Politics
The Role Of International Organisations In Global Governance
The Relationship Between Religion And Politics
Political Polarisation And The Rise Of Populism
The Impact Of Media On Political Communication And Discourse.

Tone & Type-Based Humanities Topics For Research

Easy Humanities Research Paper Topics
The Cultural Significance Of Tattoos
The History Of Chocolate And Its Cultural Significance
The Impact Of Social Media On Self-Expression
The Art Of Storytelling In Different Cultures
The Relationship Between Fashion And Identity.
Simple And Easy Humanities Research Topics
The Cultural Significance Of Food
The History Of Board Games And Their Social Impact
The Use Of Music In Religious And Cultural Rituals
The Role Of Dance In Cultural Expression
The Influence Of Technology On Language And Communication.
Excellent Humanities Research Paper Topics
The Ethics Of Artificial Intelligence In The Humanities
The Impact Of Colonialism On Indigenous Cultures
The Relationship Between Literature And Mental Health
The Influence Of Architecture On Social Behaviour
The Role Of Museums In Shaping Cultural Memory And Identity.
Top-Quality Humanities Research Paper Topics
The Relationship Between Language And Thought
The Impact Of War On Cultural Heritage And Identity
The Intersection Of Race, Class, And Gender In Contemporary Society
The Representation Of Disability In Art And Literature
The Role Of Art In Social Justice Movements.
Interesting Humanities Project Ideas For Exam
Create A Documentary On A Historical Event Or Cultural Phenomenon
Design An Art Exhibit On A Social Or Political Issue
Write A Collection Of Short Stories Exploring Themes Of Identity And Culture
Conduct A Linguistic Analysis Of A Particular Language Or Dialect
Develop A Website On The History And Cultural Significance Of A Particular Tradition Or Festival.
Best Humanities Project Ideas
Create A Multimedia Installation Exploring The Relationship Between Technology And Human Emotions
Write A Historical Novel Based On A Significant Event Or Era
Develop A Comprehensive Oral History Project On A Particular Community Or Cultural Group
Produce A Feature-Length Film Or Documentary On A Contemporary Social Issue
Curate An Art Exhibit Exploring The Intersection Of Art And Science.
Captivating Humanities Research Topics
The Portrayal Of Women In Media And Popular Culture
The Influence Of Globalisation On Local Cultures And Traditions
The History And Cultural Significance Of Street Art And Graffiti
The Relationship Between Religion And Politics In Contemporary Society
The Impact Of Environmental Degradation On Cultural Heritage And Identity.
Amazing Humanities Research Paper Ideas
The Role Of Empathy In Literature And Art
The Impact Of Technology On The Music Industry
The Representation Of Mental Illness In Literature And Film
The Impact Of Social Media On Political Activism And Social Movements
The History And Cultural Significance Of Traditional Medicine And Healing Practices.

In conclusion, the humanities offer a diverse range of research topics that are fascinating and impactful. From exploring historical events and cultural traditions to examining contemporary social issues, there is no shortage of fascinating and thought-provoking areas of study. Whether you are interested in literature, philosophy, art, music, or any other aspect of the humanities, there are endless possibilities for research and discovery.

The humanities help us to better understand ourselves, our communities, and the world around us. By engaging in humanities research, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity and diversity of human experiences and make meaningful contributions to our society and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what are some good humanities research paper topics.

Some good humanities research paper topics include the influence of Greek mythology on modern literature, the impact of the Renaissance on art, the relationship between religion and politics, and the history of human rights.

2. How do I choose a humanities research paper topic?

To choose a humanities research paper topic, consider your interests, the scope of the assignment, and the resources available to you. Narrow down your topic by asking questions and doing preliminary research.

3. What should I include in my humanities research paper?

Your humanities research paper should include a clear thesis statement, supporting evidence, and an analysis of your findings. It should also be well-organised and properly cited using a recognised citation style.

4. How can I conduct research for my humanities paper?

You can conduct research for your humanities paper by using online databases, visiting libraries and archives, and conducting interviews with experts in your field. Be sure to evaluate your sources and use reliable information.

5. What is the best way to organise my humanities research paper?

The best way to organise your humanities research paper is to start with a clear outline that includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Use headings and subheadings to organise your ideas and make sure your paper flows logically.

6. How do I write a strong introduction for my humanities research paper?

To write a strong introduction for your humanities research paper, start with a hook that grabs the reader’s attention. Provide background information on your topic and clearly state your thesis statement.

7. Can I use first-person pronouns in my humanities research paper?

It depends on the guidelines provided by your instructor or the requirements of the assignment. Generally, it is best to avoid using first-person pronouns unless you are specifically asked to do so.

8. What is the difference between a humanities research paper and a scientific research paper?

A humanities research paper focuses on the study of human culture and creativity, while a scientific research paper is based on empirical evidence and experimentation. Humanities research papers often use qualitative research methods and rely on analysis and interpretation.

9. How can I improve my writing skills for my humanities research paper?

You can improve your writing skills by practising regularly, reading examples of strong academic writing, and seeking feedback from your peers or an instructor. You can also attend writing workshops or use online writing resources.

10. What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing a humanities research paper?

Common mistakes to avoid when writing a humanities research paper include plagiarism, poor organisation, lack of focus, and failure to cite sources properly. Be sure to proofread your paper carefully and use reliable sources.

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Institutes for Advanced Topics in the Digital Humanities

The Institutes for Advanced Topics in the Digital Humanities (IATDH) program supports national or regional (multistate) training programs for scholars, humanities professionals, and advanced graduate students to broaden and extend their knowledge of digital humanities. Through this program, NEH seeks to increase the number of humanities scholars and practitioners using digital technology in their research and to broadly disseminate knowledge about advanced technology tools and methodologies relevant to the humanities.

This program aims to bring together humanities scholars, advanced graduate students, librarians, archivists, museum staff, computer scientists, information specialists, and others to learn about new tools, approaches, and technologies, and to foster relationships for future collaborations in the humanities. NEH encourages you to develop proposals for multidisciplinary teams that include the necessary range of intellectual, technical, and practical expertise. You may draw partners and collaborators from the private and public sectors and may include appropriate specialists from within and outside the United States. You should consider not only the practical applications of the institute topic, but also address ethical implications of its subject for humanities research, teaching, or public programming.

There is wide latitude in the form and content of institutes. They may focus on a particular computational method, such as network or spatial analysis, or target the needs of a particular humanities discipline or audience. You could offer it only once or multiple times to different audiences or cohorts. They may be as short as a few days or as long as six weeks. You may host it at a single site, multiples sites, or virtually, but the format and duration should allow for full and thorough treatment of the topic and be appropriate for the intended audience and all participants must be engaged in the same format simultaneously unless modifications are needed for accessibility accommodations.

Optional Draft due: Dec. 15, 2023
Application due: Feb. 15, 2024

To be eligible to apply, you must be established in the United States or its jurisdictions as one of the following organization types: • a nonprofit organization recognized as tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code • an accredited institution of higher education (public or nonprofit) • a state or local government or one of their agencies • a federally recognized Native American Tribal government

You may submit multiple applications for separate and distinct projects under this notice.

Project directors and co-directors may submit only one application to this program per deadline. Degree candidates may not serve as project directors or co-directors, but may serve in other project roles. Individuals may serve as team members in more than one IATDH application per deadline.

You may request up to $250,000. NEH will award successful applicants outright funds, which are not contingent on additional funding from other sources.

Anonymous $1M Gift Bolsters American & New England Studies Program

Marina Dawn Wells (GRS’20,’24) examining a scrimshaw carving of a trans pirate, “Alwilda,” that a whaleman copied out of a book by Charles Ellms, The Pirates Own Book (1837). Photo by Drew Furtado/New Bedford Whaling Museum

Anonymous $1M Gift Bolsters American & New England Studies Program

It will create a public humanities fund to support phd students with research projects, internships.

PhD students in the American & New England Studies Program (AMNESP) can dream a little bigger next year thanks to an anonymous $1 million gift, part of which will create a new Public Humanities Fund to support research projects, award grants, and fund research-related activities beyond campus.

“I’m exploring the possibility of partnering with local institutions to fund internships that focus on public-facing work in the humanities,” says Joseph Rezek , a College of Arts & Sciences associate professor of English and AMNESP director.

“I’m also interested in receiving proposals from PhD students to fund projects of their own design—what’s your dream project?” Rezek says.

Income from the gift, expected to start flowing during the 2024-2025 school year, will also fund academic fellowships, outside speakers, conference travel, and the like. But Rezek and the faculty are most excited about the Public Humanities Fund and its potential to expand opportunities beyond the campus and help recruit top students.

Students in AMNESP can pursue traditional academic careers, but it’s no secret that lately there are more newly minted PhDs than there are jobs. These days many head for the public humanities, through internships and research projects at institutions like the Museum of Fine Arts, the Peabody Essex Museum, the Massachusetts Historical Society, the Boston Athenaeum, and others. Only about a third are on the New England track; among the others this year is a student whose project about the airspace in the American west is supported by a NASA fellowship.

AMNESP comprises a large PhD program, with around 30 active students at a time writing dissertations that cover all periods of American history and culture, from the colonial period to the present, along with a small undergraduate program and a related master’s program in preservation studies.

A small faculty steering committee helped Rezek shape the Public Humanities Fund plan.

I’m also interested in receiving proposals from PhD students to fund projects of their own design—what’s your dream project? Joseph Rezek

“I can tell you the spirit of the donation,” Rezek says, “which is that this donor supports traditional academic success and also the idea that we need highly educated, credentialed specialists to guide the general public through a story of American history that is accurate, rich, and engages the humanities, art, history, and politics, in all the complicated ways you would in a classroom. But [the donor] also supports the work that we’ve done historically in these other other kinds of institutions.”

For a sample of what public-facing work in the humanities can mean for a PhD student, swing down to the New Bedford Whaling Museum beginning Friday and check out Reflections , an exhibition in the museum’s San Francisco Gallery.

On display through October 27, the exhibition plumbs the museum’s vast photography collection for images of literal or metaphorical reflection. The Reflections text quotes Herman Melville in Moby-Dick : “Yes, as every one knows, meditation and water are wedded for ever.”

The exhibition was researched and curated by Marina Dawn Wells (GRS’20,’24), who uses they/them pronouns. Wells recently successfully defended their PhD in the AMNESP and is the photography collection curatorial fellow at the museum.

“I’m basically the steward of the photography collection, which is pretty incredible,” says Wells. “The collection numbers somewhere around 200,000 objects. It’s a vast collection that spans the history of photography, from when daguerreotypes were invented in 1839 up to the present.

“There are all different forms of photography within it, and I’ve been responsible for cataloging work and advocating for the photography collection at a departmental and interdepartmental level. I’ve curated a couple of really exciting projects and that feels like a big deal, actually.”

In addition to Reflections , Wells is deep into research for a major exhibition that won’t open until fall 2025, Strike a Pose, on portraiture and the more than 200 photography studios that thrived in New Bedford in the 19th century.

When Wells’ fellowship ends with the summer, they’ll be staying on at the Whaling Museum as assistant curator of history and culture.

“It’s a wonderful place to be, especially for an American studies–oriented scholar, because it is art, history, science, and culture,” they say. “The embeddedness of the interdisciplinary approach in this institution in particular is astounding.”

Wells’ dissertation, Making Men from Whales: Gender and American Whaling Art, 1814-1861 , looks mainly at scrimshaw as well as painting, prints, and other forms to decode the ways artworks about life at sea depicted and sometimes subverted traditional masculinity.

Between Wells’ freshly minted PhD and the new job at the museum, it makes a nice demonstration of how the BU program’s support of public humanities can be a game changer for students.

“It’s hugely valuable,” Wells says. “I’ve obviously benefited from the ways in which BU and the American & New England Studies Program have supported the importance of external experiences.

“A museum is just an ideal place for someone who’s a graduate of my program,” they say. “There’s a scarcity of academic jobs right now, and it’s so beneficial to think about what museums, what archives, what preservation societies, what national parks, what libraries that students can go into.”

Wells is just the kind of student Rezek is hoping will take advantage of the new fund.

“This is not someone who will benefit from the Public Humanities Fund, because they are graduating, but they are an example of exactly the kind of thing that we’re trying to do with it,” he says.

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HRC partner in 2025 Global Humanities Institute on Indigenous Mobilities, Tourism, and Racial Capitalism

We are thrilled to be part of a team that has been awarded $200K USD from the Consortium of Humanities Centres and Institutes with the support of a grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to run a Global Humanities Institute in 2025 on the topic of “Indigenous Mobilities, Tourism, and Racial Capitalism”.

The Institute will explore how Indigenous communities creatively respond to the cascading effects of mega-development projects and mass tourism—such as neglect of local needs, dispossession and displacement, destruction of local ecosystems, and other consequences—at various sites around the world.

Guiding questions include:

What are the pressing concerns that Indigenous communities have regarding tourism and mega-development projects?
How has this played out in different local contexts and on the land itself?
What are strategies for centering Indigenous experiences and demands in the face of megadevelopment?
How can a humanities-centered approach help address these crises and imagine new futures?
Is it possible to construct futures in which Indigeneity, non-human relations, tourism, and mega-development goals align?

The main institute meeting will be hosted by Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán and held in Yucatán, Mexico in January 2026. A lead-up event will be held at the Humanities Research Centre ANU in January 2025. There will be an application process to fund up to 20 interdisciplinary scholars, with special focus on early career and emerging scholars, as well as community partners, to join the main institute meeting.

Professor Kylie Message-Jones (HRC) and Dr Yujie Zhu (CHMS) are leading the ANU component of the GHI in partnership with international collaborators from The Institute for Advanced Study at the University of Minnesota (Professor Bianet Castellanos), The Unidad de Proyectos Sociales (Center for Social Projects) at the Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán (UADY) (Professor Samuel François Jouault ), Co’ox Mayab, Alba Sud, The Confluencenter for Creative Inquiry at the University of Arizona (Yadira Cabarello and Professor Javier Duran) and the University of California San Diego Department of Communication (Matilde Córdoba Azcárte).

The full announcement and timeline of the 2025 Global Humanities Institute is here . Queries can be directed to [email protected]

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Digital Dialogue Roundtable: Kinship & (Be)Longing

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ABOUT THE EVENT

Now in its 40th season, MITH’s Digital Dialogues convenes prominent digital humanities, new media and information technology practitioners to present on their field-defining research. The series invites intellectual exchange around topics critical to the digital humanities. Learn more at mith.umd.edu.

Join us for the talk “Kinship & (Be)Longing: Confronting Slavery's Archive through Critical Black DH” featuring: Jessica Marie Johnson, associate professor of history at Johns Hopkins University; Olivia Barnard, PhD candidate in history at Johns Hopkins University, Leila K. Blackbird, PhD candidate in history at University of Chicago and Ellie Palazzolo, PhD candidate in history at Johns Hopkins University.

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UNLV Photojournalism Class Produces Exhibition 'The Hidden Faces of Work'

Photography, research, and community come together to tell a story of Las Vegas’ nonstop economy in Nevada Humanities exhibition.

Arts and Culture
April 24, 2024
By Ren McMullin

Editor's Note:

360-degree photo of a large group of students in circle

A housekeeper. A crossing guard. An underground DJ. A street vendor.

In the heart of Las Vegas’ economy lies a group of workers often unseen but undeniably vital. These workers are highlighted in the Nevada Humanities exhibition, The Hidden Faces of Work: Behind Las Vegas' Non-Stop Economy .

This exhibition, supported by a grant from Nevada Humanities, features the visual storytelling of students enrolled in JOUR 214, a digital photography class at the Hank Greenspun School of Journalism and Media Studies . Led by associate professor Julian Kilker , the course was much more than simply mastering camera shutter speeds and image processing software.

“While the course title focuses on digital photography and it is a very applied training class,” Kilker says, “really the overall theme we looked at is the broad notion of photography — what's involved in terms of hard skills and the soft skills? The hard skills being the technical skills, and the soft skills being working with people: interviewing, doing background research, and certain negotiations as well.”

Photography as Research

Kilker integrated guest speakers and behind the scenes tours with Brookings Mountain West , University Libraries , the Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art , and innovative photographers from the community into the curriculum. These experiences helped train students to see photography as a process of research and community engagement.

Using Las Vegas as a research site, students independently found, interviewed (often multiple times), and photographed the hidden workers in the community. The results did not disappoint: "We got a surprisingly wide range of folks,” says Kilker, “everybody from a street vendor working out of a parking lot at Ross to police officers on campus.”

The photographs depict the essence and struggle of the overlooked, but vital, labor.

A UNLV student standing next to photos on a wall for an exhibition. The photos depict the "invisible workers" of the Las Vegas economy.

Student Development Through Visual Storytelling

Isabella Pupo, a freshman in information systems, found herself drawn to the world of housekeeping. Through her lens, she captured the often underappreciated keystone of the hospitality industry. “Las Vegas is well known for its hotel and hospitality industry, which I think housekeepers contribute a lot to. Due to the work of a housekeeper being done when nobody is around or when guests are away, it’s often overlooked as an important job in the industry,” explains Pupo.

The project opened her eyes to the research that goes into photojournalism and opening an exhibition. “I’m really grateful to have an opportunity like this where I can display my work for a large group of people to see,” Pupo says. “This project has helped me grow creatively. I’ve learned to think better on the spot — whether that’s by quickly having to capture an important moment with my camera or getting a creative angle using my surroundings.”

Much of the learning students took from this class — like the work of those highlighted within the photographs — was invisible. “Photography is not just pushing a button,” Kilker explains. “The real value of the work is in those soft skills and in pushing yourself to do something that is challenging. Push a button, but really think about the deeper issues. Photography is a form of research, essentially. Photography is storytelling with documentation.”

Campus Units:

'Arts in the Center' Continues with a UNLV Film Comedy Showcase May 1

Students will perform a live, one-night-only show of both works-in-progress written sketches and entirely improvised long-form comedy.

UNLV Jazz Hosts Spring Festival April 29-May 1

The May 1 concert features legendary jazz drummer Tommu Igoe.

two couples dressed up in 19th century clothing

Nevada Conservatory Theatre Opens 'Pride and Prejudice' April 26

This Jane Austen classic, adapted by Kate Hamill, runs through May 5 in the Judy Bayley Theatre.

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Professor Emeritus Richard Salomon Elected Honorary Member of the Austrian Academy of Sciences

The Department of Asian Languages & Literatures congratulates Dr. Richard Salomon, Professor Emeritus of Sanskrit, on his election as an honorary member of the Division of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW). As Austria's largest non-university research and science institution, the OeAW strives to promote science in every respect, across a broad range of fields and disciplines.

Congratulations, Professor Salomon!

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220 Best Humanities Research Topics to Get Started
Once you have chosen a perfect humanities research topic, start writing the research paper by using your writing skills, after conducting deep research. List of the Best Humanities Research Topics. To write a humanities research paper, you can choose a topic from any discipline such as arts, religion, philosophy, medicine, etc.
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Humss strand is one of the courses offered to students who want to pursue college degrees in education, liberal arts, or other social sciences. Choose any of the exciting topics below for your high school humss research project: The impact of aging on social interactions. Anti-vaccination is the latest trending social movement.
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243 Amazing Humanities Topics For Research Humanities is an academic discipline that deals with studying the different aspects of culture and human society. This field has a rich historical background that distinguishes it from other empirical approaches to the natural sciences.
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These humanities research paper topics are great for students interested in art history and other related fields that take a close look at the impact art has had on society: Impact of Middle Eastern art on Western civilization. American art influences democracy. The Romantic period and modern art techniques.
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Law Topics. Assisted suicide. Birthright citizenship. Civil forfeiture. Conscience rights in the workplace. Data encryption and surveillance. Discipline of employees for conduct outside work. Due process on campus. Fourth Amendment and privacy.
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We argue that although they may strengthen core values of democracy such as accountability and transparency, they currently lack the right kind of authority to democratize global AI governance ...
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Whereas research in the sciences is grounded in the empirical method, humanities research uses a diverse array of methodologies, sometimes combining historical, conceptual, and/or critical methodologies in a single study. ... Here are some helpful suggestions for broadening, narrowing, or otherwise tweaking a preliminary research topic so that ...
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Often research topics are interdisciplinary and may include multiple subject areas and methods from more than just one discipline. When beginning a research project in the humanities, you must develop a deep knowledge base in a subject area, choose original sources to examine, locate and evaluate sources that also explore your areas of interest ...
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The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. Incunabula at The Huntington. Huntington Incunabula in the Digital Era. From Parchment to Pixel: Conservation and Digitization of Illuminated Manuscripts. Duke University Libraries. Teaching Materiality Online with the Rubenstein Library. Additional External Research Guides:
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Interesting Humanities Research Topics. Explore the role of women in the French Revolution. Discuss the philosophy of art and aesthetics. Explain the influence of postmodernism on literature. Discuss the impact of language on thoughts and perception. Examine the link between environment and culture.
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Research in the humanities is frequently misunderstood. When we think of research, what immediately comes to mind for many of us is a laboratory setting, with white-coated scientists hunched over microscopes. Because research in the humanities is often a rather solitary activity, it can be difficult for newcomers to gain a sense of what research looks like within the scope of English Studies.
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Humanities research is the study of humanities. It covers a broad range of topics, from history and literature to philosophy and religion. About us; Disclaimer; ... Define your research question or topic: Identify a question or topic that you want to explore in-depth. This can be a broad or narrow topic, depending on the scope of your research ...
113 Great Research Paper Topics
113 Great Research Paper Topics. Posted by Christine Sarikas. General Education. One of the hardest parts of writing a research paper can be just finding a good topic to write about. Fortunately we've done the hard work for you and have compiled a list of 113 interesting research paper topics. They've been organized into ten categories and ...
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Humanities and Social Sciences. Research the broad topic of the humanities and social sciences, which is a discipline that involves the study of human society and social relationships. Within this discipline, however, the humanities and the social sciences are distinct in their methodology and focus (although there is some overlap).
Developing a Topic
Note: these recommendations are geared toward researchers in the arts or humanities. Developing a research topic is an iterative process, even for a short paper. This is a process that emerges in stages, and one which requires critical (but not criticizing) engagement with the evidence, literature, and prior research. The evidence can be an ...
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Humanities Research Topics on History. The Role Of Women In The French Revolution. The Impact Of The Cold War On American Society. The Cultural Significance Of The Renaissance. The Influence Of Ancient Greek Democracy On Modern Politics. The Social And Economic Effects Of The Industrial Revolution.
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You should consider not only the practical applications of the institute topic, but also address ethical implications of its subject for humanities research, teaching, or public programming. There is wide latitude in the form and content of institutes. They may focus on a particular computational method, such as network or spatial analysis, or ...
Anonymous $1M Gift Bolsters American & New England Studies Program
PhD students in the American & New England Studies Program (AMNESP) can dream a little bigger next year thanks to an anonymous $1 million gift, part of which will create a new Public Humanities Fund to support research projects, award grants, and fund research-related activities beyond campus. "I'm exploring the possibility of partnering with local institutions to fund internships that ...
HRC partner in 2025 Global Humanities Institute on Indigenous
We are thrilled to be part of a team that has been awarded $200K USD from the Consortium of Humanities Centres and Institutes with the support of a grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to run a Global Humanities Institute in 2025 on the topic of "Indigenous Mobilities, Tourism, and Racial Capitalism".. The Institute will explore how Indigenous communities creatively respond to the ...
Digital Dialogue Roundtable: Kinship & (Be)Longing
Add to Calendar 04/23/24 5:15 PM 04/23/24 6:45 PM America/New_York Digital Dialogue Roundtable: Kinship & (Be)Longing ABOUT THE EVENT. Now in its 40th season, MITH's Digital Dialogues convenes prominent digital humanities, new media and information technology practitioners to present on their field-defining research. The series invites intellectual exchange around topics critical to the ...
UNLV Photojournalism Class Produces Exhibition 'The Hidden Faces of
Using Las Vegas as a research site, students independently found, interviewed (often multiple times), and photographed the hidden workers in the community. The results did not disappoint: "We got a surprisingly wide range of folks," says Kilker, "everybody from a street vendor working out of a parking lot at Ross to police officers on ...
UVic news
The budget also committed $30 million over three years starting in 2024/25, to support Indigenous participation in research, with $10 million each being provided to First Nation, Métis, and Inuit partners. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Qwul'sih'yah'maht, Robina Thomas, UVic's vice-president, Indigenous. It is essential, as we undertake our ...
Professor Emeritus Richard Salomon Elected Honorary Member of the
The Department of Asian Languages & Literatures congratulates Dr. Richard Salomon, Professor Emeritus of Sanskrit, on his election as an honorary member of the Division of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW). As Austria's largest non-university research and science institution, the OeAW strives to promote science in every respect, across a broad range of ...

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Research articles

Decomposing the comprehensive efficiency of major cities into divisions on governance, ICT and sustainability: network slack-based measure model

Analysing and evaluating the bilingual adaptation of English graded readers in China: A social semiotic multimodal discourse study

Viral decisions: unmasking the impact of COVID-19 info and behavioral quirks on investment choices

Parents’ financial socialization or socioeconomic characteristics: which has more influence on Gen-Z’s financial wellbeing?

A method for identifying different types of university research teams

How popularising higher education affects economic growth and poverty alleviation: empirical evidence from 38 countries

Designing a framework for entrepreneurship education in Chinese higher education: a theoretical exploration and empirical case study

Quantifying the diffusion history of Yangmingism

Cyclical dynamics and co-movement of business, credit, and investment cycles: empirical evidence from India

Role of perceived ease of use, usefulness, and financial strength on the adoption of health information systems: the moderating role of hospital size

An empirical investigation of emotion and the criminal law: towards a “criminalization bias”?

Career decisions in artistic professions during the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany—an experimental study

The comparison of spatial patterns and factors associated with healthcare provider knowledge in palliative care in various regions of China

Understanding government support for rural development in Hubei Province, China

Evaluating the effectiveness of training of managerial and non-managerial bank employees using Kirkpatrick’s model for evaluation of training

Between commons and anticommons: a nested common-private interface framework

Towards an international regulatory framework for AI safety: lessons from the IAEA’s nuclear safety regulations

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