How Can I Contribute?

Astrosociologists Needed!

The success of the Astrosociology Research Institute depends on the contributions of its members and supporters.  And, as expanded upon below, contributions can come in many forms.  A strong astrosociological community ensures development of this important new field.

Why Contribute?

Before asking "how" one can contribute, one must first ask another important question:  why should I contribute to ARI?  The "how" comes after one has satisfied himself or herself that contributing is a good idea in the first place.  The information in the two preceding panels provides a great deal of information upon which to answer both questions (i.e., the "how" and the "why), assuming that the reader is interested in the subject matter.  Below are some additional answers to this first question to ponder...

As we move beyond the fifty year mark since the space age began, it is now past the time to finally unite the two branches of science because humanity only now begins to seriously consider its preliminary steps to explore, settle, work, and recreate in space environments.  By contributing to ARI, you can take part in the excitement of conducting research in these areas and taking part in the planning of missions and other efforts.

The obvious reason to donate funds to ARI relates directly to assisting us to further our mission's objectives.  ARI's ambitious mission requires funding from a number of sources that include individuals, informal groups, and organizations supportive of the development of astrosociology.  Therefore, we must rely on revenues and assistance in a variety of forms that include memberships, sponsorships, grants, volunteerism, and donations of various kinds to succeed.

No one else will do it except for interested parties that take the initiative.  The fact that no one has done this in the past, even as humanity plans to send additional people into space and even as astrosocial phenomena increase their impact on terrestrial societies, speaks to both the relevance and necessity of ARI's very creation!  The social sciences have much catching up to do and ARI provides a structured plan to organize the effort.  On the other hand, they have much to contribute as well.

Authors:  Submit Copies of Your Books

A good way to assist ARI build its library for use by members and others is for authors who write about an astrosociological topic to donate one or more copies of their books.  The total value of your donation listed on your receipt will reflect the selling price of the book(s) listed on an online book store site on the date that your donation is received by ARI.

You can click on the Donation Page button above to sign up to donate books and other materials.

Join ARI in a Variety of Ways

If you desire a greater level of participation, you can become a full member of ARI or join us in other capacities by visiting the Support and Membership page. (A summary is provided below).

Research Associate (RA) -- RAs serve as formal collaborators with ARI who receive the greatest number of privileges and benefits.  These include the formal representation of ARI at conferences and other venues, even though it is a non-paying, non-voting position.  Research Associates sign contracts that oblige them to conduct original astrosociological research for the Institute.  In addition, they may be asked to provide advice to ARI about various matters of which they have expertise or with which they have experience.

Full Member (FM) -- most membership privileges on and off the website, including full access to the Virtual Library.
Associate Member (AM) -- fewer privileges on the website than a full member, including partial access to the Virtual Library (excluding the most recent additions).
Student Member (SM) -- Student members receive the same privileges as full members, though their fees are reduced due to their student status.
Official Supporter (OS) -- limited to email-based announcements as well as various other communications relevant to the development of astrosociology.

Note:  the privileges for each of the statuses above are not yet finalized.  See the Support/Membership page for additional details.

Donate Funds to the Cause

Some supporters may not opt to join ARI as a member or supporter, but may still desire to contribute money to assist ARI with its mission.  Under these circumstances, donors should send a check or money order to the Astrosociology Research Institute at the address found on the Support/Membership page.

Participate at Conferences

The presentation of papers in sessions dedicated exclusively to astrosociology as well as those focusing on broader, related issues remains a central activity of ARI.  The officers and members of ARI organize and participate in astrosociology sessions and even symposia on a regular basis throughout the year.  Calls for Papers go out several times a year, providing interested scholars and students with the information required to submit their work.

Check the Calendar/History page on a regular basis for new opportunities.

Participate in Other Activities

As ARI develops and grows, new programs and enhancements to existing programs will take shape.  While not all programs are free of charge, ARI will strive to provide avenues of participation that will cost members and supporters little or no money in accordance with its mission, striving to maximize the benefits to participants so they can contribute in various ways to the development of the astrosociology.

"Donate" Your Ideas!

As ARI evolves over time, new ideas will keep the pursuit of its mission fresh and innovative.  No idea is frivolous as we consider all suggestions, criticisms, and other forms of input so that we may better our efforts to develop the field to which we dedicate ourselves.

Volunteer

As a nonprofit organization, the more ARI can limit its expenditures, the more it can devote to furthering its mission, including assistance at conferences.  New volunteer opportunities will arise over time, so please sign up as a supporter to conduct astrosociological research and assist to develop astrosociology as a legitimate academic field.  (Note:  no volunteer positions exist at this time, but please check back as things develop).