Why Collect Science?

Citation

Alberti SJMM (2017) Why Collect Science?. Journal of Conservation and Museum Studies, 15 (1), Art. No.: 1. https://doi.org/10.5334/jcms.150

Abstract
In this critical assessment of the ‘museology of science’ I cherry-pick recent scholarship and practice to unpack the functions of science collections. Some practices (exhibition, engagement, study) have already attracted considerable attention, others not yet (storage); but all tend to be considered separately as case studies from particular institutions and for particular disciplinary audiences. Juxtaposing different reasons to collect reveals both the tensions inherent in science collections and the opportunities these collections afford, especially around their materiality. This is why we have collected science, and why we should continue.

Keywords
exhibitions; materiality; research; science engagement; science and technology museums; storage

Journal
Journal of Conservation and Museum Studies: Volume 15, Issue 1

People

Dr Samuel Alberti

Honorary Professor, History