Automation & script decipherment

Idea

automation of deciphering ancient scriptsThe common method of script decipherment is a process in which relations are identified, for instance between sound, symbol/character and meaning, or between scripts and trading routes. At the beginning relations are vague and lose. Some are reconsidered, others become more certain by support of new relations. Automation could support the process of decipherment by maintaining these relations, and through searching for potential new relations, for example, through automatic search for combinations that are used more often in a text:

  1. a system which contains information (sounds, symbols/characters, meaning, discussions, etc) and relations. Automation can handle indistinctness, for example through fuzzy logic.
  2. an internet platform where users can operate/co-operate and discuss about the deciphering. With good prelimiting conditions such platforms can be very successful when open for general use. The idea is to create a natural competition between knowledge and quality of contributed ideas.
  3. automation can apply relations and conclusions consequently. Alterations can easily be applied and processed for the whole project, for example the alteration of the meaning of a symbol/character. The impact of changes can be noted immediately ("if you assume this, then something becomes incorrect elsewhere")
  4. in the future artificial intelligence can be used and offer transgressive support. Dense brainwork can be executed quickly and consequently.

Goal/result

Automation of script decipherment aims to achieve the following:

  1. handing over the body of thought of this deciphering method to the world community
  2. new contributions to script decipherment by involving the world
  3. publication
  4. better deciphering results
  5. provide for a communication and discussion platform
  6. convenience; dense work can be automated

Steps to be taken

An internet server facilitates a database (mysql). The database stores all information (symbols, information, reasoning, discussions, etc.). Access to the database can be arranged through a php-script. Users can easily access the information with an internetbrowser.

Heavy calculations as the computing of logic reasoning and artificial intelligence can be executed by a separate computer program at the server. The used technique is standard and available in open source code. The basic thought is openness of the project.

Necessary means

Requirements:

  1. an internet server, for example through a hosting provider or a university that is willing to place a server at disposal. A university probably is to be preferred because in case of success, support for maintenance, technique and contribution in this field can be expected.
  2. involvement of script deciphering experts (historians, archeologists, linguists, etc.) for the content, involvement of students (informatics) for the necessary technical environment required. Thus, alpha's and technicians who like to divide, distribute the work over many to prevent a large workload for individuals
  3. goodwill from the current decipherment team to relocate the discussion to the internet and to experiment with this combination of technique and alpha science. Technical knowledge for those helping out with script deciphering is not required.
  4. volunteers who help to realise the idea and the technique (initiation/control by the undersigned).

Jørgen Best