The role of technical sections within SEG

Abstract

The SEG Constitution states in Article II that “the objectives of this Society shall be to promote the science of geophysics, especially as it relates to exploration and research, to foster the common scientific interests of geophysicists, and to maintain a high professional standing among its members.” One mechanism for accomplishing SEG's primary objective is through the development and promotion of technical sections. A technical section is defined as a formally organized group sharing a common interest in subdiscipline or a specific area of interest within applied geophysics. Currently, the formation of technical sections is allowed by the SEG Constitution and Bylaws. Article IX, Section 1, of the Bylaws states “upon petition of 20 Active Members of the Society in good standing residing within appropriate distance of a central point or sharing a common interest or problem, the Council may authorize the formation of a Section or Associated Society.” In this construct, technical sections are treated as equivalent to geographic sections or affiliated societies. This structure fails to recognize the unique role of technical sections in meeting the objectives of the Society and the fundamental differences between a technically oriented and a geographically oriented group.