Something Borrowed
Society of Archaeological Research
OUT OF CHARACTER INFORMATION
- Intent: To submit and elaborate on an organization I’ve referred to before in text and submissions.
- Image Credit: Midjourney | Edits by me in photoshop.
- Canon: N/A
- Permissions: N/A
- Links: N/A
- Organization Name: Society of Archaeological Research
- Classification: Organization | Academic, Government
- Affiliation: Dosuunian Commonwealth of Nations
- Organization Symbol: Central to the symbol, an owl represents wisdom, knowledge, and the pursuit of learning, which aligns with SOAR’s mission as an academic and research-focused organization. The scroll meanwhile symbolizes the importance of documentation to the research process.
- Description: The Society of Archaeological Research (SOAR) is a prestigious organization dedicated to the study and preservation of past cultures within the Commonwealth. Their work is crucial in understanding the historical interactions and behaviors of sentient beings, contributing significantly to the broader Anthropological Society of the Commonwealth (ASC).
- Headquarters: Xandriia, Mephout [City Sub, Soon™]
- Domain: The Society of Archaeological Research (SOAR) operates throughout the Commonwealth, particularly in regions with rich historical and archaeological significance. While they maintain a strong presence in Xandriia, Mephout, and previously on Dosuun, their fieldwork extends to various planets and locations within the Commonwealth. SOAR is an active part of the community, often engaging with local populations through public lectures, exhibitions, and collaborative research projects. Their relationship with the local populace is generally positive, as they contribute to the preservation and understanding of local history and culture.
- Notable Assets:
- Xandriia Research Complex: A state-of-the-art facility in Xandriia, Mephout, equipped with advanced laboratories, archives, and a museum showcasing significant archaeological finds.
- Dosuun Archives: Although their headquarters moved, SOAR maintains an extensive archive on Dosuun, preserving valuable historical records and artifacts.
- Field Stations: Several temporary and permanent field stations located on planets of archaeological interest within the Commonwealth, facilitating ongoing research and excavations.
- Hierarchy: SOAR operates with a clear chain of command to ensure efficient management and coordination of its extensive research activities:
- Director: The head of SOAR, responsible for overall leadership, strategic planning, and representation of the organization within the broader Anthropological Society of the Commonwealth (ASC).
- Board of Governors: A group of senior archaeologists and scholars who provide guidance, approve major projects, and oversee the organization’s policies.
- Department Heads: Leaders of specific subfields within archaeology (e.g., cultural archaeology, bioarchaeology, geoarchaeology), managing their respective teams and research projects.
- Senior Researchers: Experienced archaeologists who lead fieldwork, mentor junior members, and contribute to the Archaeological Journal.
- Researchers and Field Archaeologists: Core members conducting day-to-day research, excavations, and analysis.
- Support Staff: Includes administrative personnel, archivists, lab technicians, and educators who assist in various capacities.
- Membership: To join SOAR, individuals must have a strong academic background in archaeology or related fields. Prospective members typically undergo a rigorous selection process that includes:
- Application: Submission of academic credentials, a research proposal, and references.
- Interview: An interview with the Board of Governors or Department Heads to assess the candidate’s fit and potential contributions.
- Field Test: Participation in a supervised excavation or research project to demonstrate practical skills and teamwork.
- Initiation: Successful candidates attend an induction ceremony where they pledge to uphold the values and mission of SOAR.
- OOC (Out-of-Character): Talk to me!
- Climate: SOAR is known for its collaborative and intellectually stimulating atmosphere. Members are encouraged to share ideas, engage in healthy debates, and support each other’s research. While competition for funding and publication can be intense, it generally fosters innovation and excellence rather than internal conflict. The organization promotes a culture of mutual respect, curiosity, and dedication to uncovering and preserving the past.
- Reputation: SOAR is highly regarded within the Commonwealth for its contributions to the understanding of historical cultures and civilizations. They are seen as a prestigious and reliable source of archaeological knowledge. The organization’s publications and exhibitions are well-respected and attract considerable public and academic interest. While most view SOAR positively, some critics argue that their focus on human and near-human cultures has overshadowed research into non-human histories, although recent efforts are beginning to address this imbalance.
- Curios: Members of SOAR are distinguished by several unique items that signify their membership and dedication to the organization's mission:
- Signet Ring: Each member receives a signet ring with the SOAR emblem, a Dosuunian owl perched over an open scroll. The ring is made of a durable, yet elegant metal, symbolizing the enduring pursuit of knowledge.
- Journal of Records: New members are given a leather-bound journal, embossed with the SOAR symbol, to document their findings, research notes, and reflections. This journal is both a personal record and a contribution to the collective knowledge of the organization.
- Field Amulet: A small amulet bearing the SOAR emblem and inscribed with protective runes. Members wear this amulet during field expeditions as a symbol of their connection to the society and their shared commitment to uncovering the past.
- Rules: SOAR operates under a set of guiding principles that reflect its scholarly and ethical commitment to archaeology and the preservation of history:
- Respect for All Cultures: Members must respect the cultures and traditions they study, ensuring that their research and excavations are conducted with sensitivity and reverence.
- Integrity in Research: All findings must be documented accurately and honestly. Fabrication or misrepresentation of data is strictly prohibited.
- Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing: SOAR values collaboration both within the organization and with external entities. Members are encouraged to share their findings and support each other's research.
- Preservation over Exploitation: Artifacts and sites must be preserved for future generations. Members are forbidden from selling or exploiting discoveries for personal gain.
- Neutrality: SOAR maintains a neutral stance in political and religious matters, focusing solely on the pursuit of knowledge and understanding.
- Goals: SOAR’s primary goals are aligned with its mission to study and preserve ancient cultures and contribute to the broader understanding of history, and both human and non-human civilization:
- Expanding Research: Continue to expand their research efforts throughout the Commonwealth and beyond, uncovering and documenting ancient sites, artifacts, and cultural traditions.
- Education and Outreach: Provide educational programs, workshops, and public lectures to share their findings with the wider community and inspire future generations of archaeologists and historians.
- Collaboration with Other Institutions: Strengthen partnerships with academic institutions, museums, and other research organizations to foster a collaborative approach to archaeology and historical research.
- Publication and Dissemination: Maintain and expand their Archaeological Journal to publish high-quality research and findings, making this knowledge accessible to both scholars and the general public.
- Technological Advancement: Invest in advanced archaeological tools and techniques to improve the accuracy and efficiency of their research and preservation efforts.
- Preservation Projects: Undertake specific preservation projects to protect and restore significant archaeological sites and artifacts, ensuring their survival for future study and public appreciation.
N/A - Yet!
HISTORICAL INFORMATION
The Society of Archaeological Research (SOAR) was established in the late 850s and formally came together in 862 ABY as a culmination of several smaller archaeological groups based on Dosuun. The founders were a coalition of passionate archaeologists and historians who recognized the need for a unified organization to advance the study of archaeology within the Commonwealth. Driven by a shared commitment to uncovering and preserving the past, they aimed to create a prestigious institution that would set high standards for archaeological research.
In its early years, SOAR focused on consolidating resources, standardizing research methodologies, and publishing its findings in a dedicated Archaeological Journal. The organization's reputation grew rapidly, attracting talented archaeologists from across the Commonwealth. This period saw significant discoveries and advancements in the understanding of human and near-human cultures.
By 877 ABY, SOAR had outgrown its original headquarters on Dosuun and relocated to Xandriia, Mephout. The move was strategic, providing access to better facilities, a vibrant intellectual community, and greater opportunities for collaborative research. The new headquarters, the Xandriia Research Complex, became the center of SOAR’s operations, featuring advanced laboratories, extensive archives, and a museum to display significant finds.
SOAR’s modus operandi involves a multidisciplinary approach to archaeology, integrating methods from cultural archaeology, bioarchaeology, geoarchaeology, and other subfields. The organization emphasizes fieldwork, meticulous documentation, and collaboration with local communities to ensure that their research is both comprehensive and respectful of the cultures they study. Their focus on understanding the interactions and behaviors of past sentient beings has broadened over time, with increasing efforts to include non-human histories in their research.
