The first step in carrying out any kind of academic research is to take stock of the existing knowledge about the problem or issue under consideration. This involves the identification and critical review of relevant literature, and should provide a context for your own analysis of the topic. This is not only in terms of setting out the development of theory, current position and any recent empirical research, but also by establishing the analytical framework from which you are approaching the topic. The review will form an important early section of your final dissertation.