For the third portfolio in this class, I decided to revisit an earlier issue that has been discussed on and off throughout the course over various periods (my first portfolio discussed this issue in some detail). Academic journal databases find themselves in a difficult position in today’s society. Although it is widely agreed that they have various uses, some people are arguing that the system surrounding them is corrupt and needs to be destroyed. Their rising costs and increased selectivity has made many people believe that it would be best to do away with them. This however is too simplistic a way of thinking. Although there may be some drawbacks, these databases have and will continue to fuel intellectual discovery and progress in both the arts and sciences. My paper will argue for the continued relevance of these tools.