This book combines documentation and analysis of the contents of
exhibits in 12 museums (Part 1) with interviews with experts involved
in the creation of exhibits (Part 2) to explore variation in human
evolution exhibits. To be successful, museum exhibits must make a
personal connection with visitors, inspiring them to learn more. Human
evolution exhibits thus need contemporary relevance. It is crucial to
find ways to bind our deep past to our lives today. Presenting our
story, and our collective history, some human evolution exhibits reach
an audience of millions each year. An understanding of evolution is
fundamental to modern biology, and a lack of knowledge of basic
principles has practical consequences, including impairing reception
of health messages. The goal of the volume is to stimulate discussion
of how the presentation of evolution, and in particular human
evolution, can be improved, contributing to scientific literacy and
engagement with evolutionary science. To enhance relevance to a
broader public, the author argues that incorporation of evolutionary
medicine and clearer explanations of ancestry and human biological
variation are needed. The surveyed museums include four in Texas, the
author’s home state, seven additional renowned U.S. museums, and the
Natural History Museum in London. Some of the 35 interviewees are
prominent academic researchers; other contribute their expertise in
design, art, and education. Topics discussed include exhibit content
and changing exhibits, the ideal vs. reality in exhibit creation,
self-assessments of exhibits, education and “edutainment,” and
exhibit content intersections with religion, politics, and the history
of representations of race / human biological variation. A
bibliographic essay, appendices, and text boxes provide additional
information for readers desiring more in-depth study. This volume is
of interest to a wide range of readers in anthropology, museum
studies, and science communication.
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Produktdetaljer
ISBN
9783031694295
Publisert
2024
Utgiver
Springer Nature
Språk
Product language
Engelsk
Format
Product format
Digital bok
Forfatter