Curious Devices and Mighty Machines: Exploring Science Museums

Science museums face paradoxes, such as being accessible and fun while representing complex science, historic and contemporary, and attracting millions but storing most objects in deep storage. This book explores the secret lives of science curators, the origins and uses of scientific objects, and the future of these institutions.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 15 August 2022
Publisher: Reaktion Books

Science museums face a unique set of challenges as they strive to be accessible and engaging while also representing increasingly complex scientific concepts. They must balance historical significance with contemporary relevance, creating exhibits that attract millions of visitors while preserving their vast collections of objects, many of which remain hidden away in deep storage, rarely seen by the public. This book delves into these conflicts, shedding light on the secret lives of science curators and exploring the origins and uses of scientific objects. It also provides an insightful examination of the purpose and future of science museums, offering a roadmap for these institutions to navigate the complexities of the 21st century.

Written by Samuel J.M.M. Alberti, a renowned expert on science museums, this book offers an insiders perspective on the past and present practices of these institutions. Through his detailed research and compelling storytelling, Alberti reveals the idiosyncrasies and complexities of science curation, showcasing the tireless efforts of curators to preserve and interpret scientific knowledge for the public.

One of the key themes of the book is the origins and sources of scientific objects. Alberti explores the various ways in which these objects are acquired, from donations and acquisitions to scientific expeditions and research. He also discusses the challenges faced by science museums in preserving and maintaining these objects, including issues such as conservation, storage, and documentation.

Another important aspect of the book is the use of scientific objects in education and research. Alberti highlights the role that science museums play in promoting scientific literacy and understanding, providing opportunities for visitors to interact with and learn from scientific exhibits. He also discusses the ways in which scientific objects are used by researchers and scholars in their work, and the importance of preserving these resources for future generations.

In addition to exploring the origins and uses of scientific objects, the book also provides an insightful examination of the purpose and future of science museums. Alberti argues that science museums are not just repositories of scientific knowledge but also hubs of innovation and creativity. He suggests that these institutions should embrace new technologies and digital platforms to enhance their visitor experience and promote scientific dialogue and collaboration.

Overall, this book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in science museums, history, and the broader field of science. It offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the challenges and opportunities facing these institutions, providing a roadmap for their future growth and success. Whether you are a museum professional, a researcher, or a curious visitor, this book will provide you with a deeper understanding of the world of science museums and the incredible contributions that they make to our understanding of the world.

Weight: 742g
Dimension: 164 x 239 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789146394