For amateur researchers who don’t have access to extensive professional resources, there are still several methods and tools they can use to cross-check previous findings and apply a holistic approach. While they may never have access to every piece of data, they can still adopt strategies that lead to more accurate, well-rounded interpretations. Here are some practical approaches:
Use Open Access Academic Databases
Many research papers, articles, and datasets are available for free online. Some key resources include:
Google Scholar: A free search engine for academic papers. It allows users to find peer-reviewed articles, theses, and books. By looking at the references of key papers, amateur researchers can find related studies that may support or challenge the findings they are reviewing.
JSTOR (Free Access): JSTOR offers a free tier with access to some articles, especially older publications that might be useful for historical research.
By using these resources, amateur researchers can quickly cross-check prior findings and broaden their understanding by accessing a variety of viewpoints and research outcomes.
Use Crowdsourced Databases and Public Resources
There are many databases available online that provide free access to archaeological records, inscriptions, and materials:
The British Museum Collection Online: The British Museum offers a free online database with detailed descriptions and images of their collections, including items related to the Brigantes and other ancient cultures.
Digital Atlas of Roman and Medieval Civilizations: A map-based resource that helps users trace the history and geography of ancient and medieval civilizations, offering access to primary sources and archaeological sites.
Online Inscriptions Databases (e.g., Epigraphic Database): Some online databases specialize in inscriptions and provide free access to primary epigraphic data. For instance, the Epigraphic Database Heidelberg allows users to explore Roman inscriptions.
OpenStreetMap (OSM): A free mapping tool that can be used for historical landscape analysis by overlaying ancient roads, settlements, and geographical features. This can help situate archaeological finds in their broader landscape.
These resources provide a wealth of information that can help researchers cross-check findings and compare different sources.
Online Forums and Communities
Reddit: Subreddits like r/Archaeology, r/History, or r/AskHistorians can provide a platform for researchers to discuss their findings with experts and amateurs alike. These communities often have experienced individuals who are willing to offer insight or suggest alternative interpretations of data.
ResearchGate: A network where researchers from various fields share their work and discuss their findings. Many papers are available for free download, and you can directly ask questions from authors regarding their studies.
Academia.edu: Similar to ResearchGate, this platform allows researchers to share papers and collaborate with others. Many researchers upload their works for free access.
Cross-Referencing Inscriptions, Artifacts, and Iconography
One of the simplest ways to check previous findings is to look at iconography and artifacts related to the same period or culture. For example, if you’re studying an inscription like the one in Brigantia, you can cross-reference it with:
Images of similar statues or artifacts from the same period. Do they have consistent symbols or iconography? Is there a pattern of imperial representation that aligns with the inscription’s wording?
Other inscriptions: Cross-reference the wording with other inscriptions from the same region or similar contexts to see if there’s congruence in the language or titles used, like the IMP or AUG mentioned earlier.
This can be done by browsing online museum collections, as mentioned above, or by examining online repositories that document such items.
Applying the Holistic Approach in Practice
To apply a holistic approach when you don’t have all the data available:
Start with a wide search: Look at multiple sources for every piece of data you are examining, from different time periods and regions, not just those specifically related to your topic. This helps you avoid over-relying on a narrow set of conclusions.
Consider multiple perspectives: In archaeology, perspectives can differ based on cultural, regional, or temporal contexts. For example, an inscription that doesn’t mention a deity’s full name might still be important if its iconography indicates imperial power, as in the case of Brigantia.
Balance primary and secondary sources: While primary sources (like the inscriptions themselves) are crucial, don’t overlook secondary sources that provide analysis and context. However, always question the conclusions presented in secondary sources, especially if they don’t seem to fit with other data.
Ask the right questions: Constantly ask yourself, “Does this evidence fit with the broader context of the period or culture?” and “Am I ignoring any alternative explanations?”
Using Critical Thinking to Evaluate Sources
Check for Bias: Be aware of potential biases in both primary and secondary sources. Research conducted in different historical or cultural contexts may carry biases that influence interpretation. Always consider the author’s background, their research focus, and the political or cultural context of their work.
Consider the Source’s Publication Date: Research findings change over time. Earlier works might be outdated as new techniques, discoveries, or theories emerge. Always check if there are more recent publications or alternative viewpoints.
Tools for Visualizing and Organizing Data
Even without access to advanced tools, free software can help organize and analyse data:
Trello or Notion: These are project management tools that allow you to organize your findings and research in a way that’s easy to review and cross-check. You can create different boards for topics, and visually map out how evidence fits together.
Google Sheets or Excel: Simple but effective tools for creating databases, timelines, and cross-referencing data. Use these for creating comparative tables or keeping track of conflicting interpretations.
Gephi: A free tool for visualizing networks. This could be used to track relationships between different archaeological sites, people, or inscriptions.
In Conclusion
While amateur researchers may not have access to all professional tools, they can still employ these strategies to ensure a more holistic approach to archaeological research. By using freely available online resources, checking multiple data sources, and applying critical thinking, researchers can challenge prior assumptions and avoid relying on incomplete or biased conclusions. This approach allows them to build more nuanced, accurate interpretations, even with limited access to data.
Copper alloy brooch. Hod Hill brooch, Mackreth type HOD HILL 4.b3. A small bifurcated head is rolled forward to retain pin gear [lost]. An uppermost part of the strip below this bears a single transverse rib. Below this, a nearly square plate has four vertical ribs and small waisted wings. The lower bow is moulded […]
Copper alloy brooch fragment. Cast lower bow and unpierced catch plate from a bow brooch with a narrow rounded bow, possibly a Colchester brooch, Mackreth type C 2. Suggested date: Early Roman, 43-75Length: 26.2mm, Width: 3.3mm, Thickness (bow): 2.7mm, Weight: 2.21gms
Copper alloy coin. Possibly an as indeterminate, Early Roman issue of 43-200, with drilled hole near edge at 10 O’clock[?] obverse.Obverse description: bust probably rightReverse description: possibly a figure.Diameter: 24mm, Weight: 4.82gms, die axis: possibly 12
