Will It Ever Be FAIR?

Abstract A fundamental task of archaeology is to address challenging scientific questions related the complexity human societies. If we are systematically understand processes that affect societies on multiple spatial and temporal scales, research leveraging existing archaeological data essential. However, only a fraction from projects publicly findable or accessible, let alone interoperable reusable. This case despite statements disciplinary ethics, availability capable technologies for stewardship, publications providing guidance, legal mandates. article introduces FAIR principles stewardship in North American archaeology, which state should be Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable. We call efforts promote widespread adoption CARE (Collective benefit, Authority control, Responsibility, Ethics) among professional organizations, publishers, repositories, researchers. also implementation requirements adhere these by governmental agencies, funding bodies, other regulators research. Ultimately, an ethical framework contributes our understanding experience can lead greater integration reuse results, fostering increased partnerships between academia industry.