Fostering a Culture of Sustainability

Abstract

The cultures of the world are changing dramatically under pressures from globalization, population growth, urbanization, and pluralization. Many wonder how societies can be sustained within a planetary biosphere that has limits in its ability to produce the necessities of life for human and non-human species. Despite cultural and religious perspectives that abound across the globe (too often producing violent conflicts), the core cultural framework that is shaping the current reality is increasingly secular and urban. This paper explores basic questions regarding how museums understand and assess the cultural needs of our time. It further asserts that there are opportunities for the museum community to play a vital role in facilitating public reflection, engagement, and communication about our cultural reality—but not without undergoing a serious re-examination of the values, practices, and required skills necessary to play such a role.

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