The online dictionary defined museums as “places of study, buildings where objects of historical, scientific or artistic interest are kept, preserved and exhibited”. To The Museums Association, a museum is “an institution which collects documents, preserves, exhibits and interprets material evidence and associated information for the public benefit”.
Since 1998, this definition has changed. Museums now enable the public to explore collections for inspiration, learning and enjoyment. They are institutions that collect, safeguard and make accessible artefacts and specimens, which they hold in trust for society. Mike Wallace (1996) categorised museums into four distinct types, namely National Museums that hold collection of national importance, Armed Service Museums, Independence Museums and Local Authority Museums. According to Wallace, the importance of museums lies in their role as a nation’s memory bank.
Personally, what matters most about museums is that they are one source of living history. But I guess the question here is not 'museums or not' but rather who defines what is of value and worth preserving?
I certainly get your point Fady... culture can never be restricted to museums but also can't be ignored.
1 comment:
culture or museums that cant be ignored?
Museums are needed to reserve the heritage of countries, but they are not a must visit for the tourists visiting the country, no? :)
Post a Comment