Ethics in Archaeology
Consistent with its mission to advance understanding of the past through ethically based scientific and humanistic investigations, the Society for American Archaeology (SAA) is dedicated to promoting ethical standards and education across the archaeological community. Through its Committee on Ethics, the annual Ethics Bowl, and the SAA Principles of Archaeological Ethics, the SAA leads the discipline in defining responsible conduct in archaeology.
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Be part of the community and conversation by joining the Society today.
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Who wrote the current SAA Principles of Archaeological Ethics?
With the goal of establishing principles of archaeological ethics that are a living document, the SAA Board of Directors established a first task force who authored process recommendations by which the Principles of Archaeological Ethics would be updated. In November 2018, the SAA Board received this report on revisions of the SAA Principles of Archaeological Ethics and authorized a second task force to solicit input from varied and diverse audiences. In February 2021, the board received this second report on revisions of the SAA Principles of Archaeological Ethics. Following input from the community, the board created a third task force, who drafted an update that was sent to members for comments, discussed at the 2023 SAA Annual Meeting, and discussed at an online forum and then adopted by SAA members in March 2024.
What is the relationship between the SAA and Register of Professional Archaeologists?
The SAA supports the mission of the Register of Professional Archaeologists, a listing of archaeologists who have agreed to abide by an explicit code of conduct and standards of performance. SAA members receive a registration discount with the Register of Professional Archaeologists and agree that they are subject to the RPA Code of Conduct.
How can I learn more about ethical practices in archaeology?
Organize or coach a team of students to participate in the SAA/RPA Ethics Bowl. Read past case studies and discuss with your peers. Explore our resources to learn more.