The Value of Museums in Averting Societal Collapse

Abstract

Abstract Current research suggests that societal collapse is in progress. The indicators of societal collapse include untenable economic inequality; the spread of authoritarian governments; the collapse of biodiversity; an economic system dependent on the fallacy of endless growth, consumption, and debt, and the failure of governments institutions to respond to these crises. This article explores the implications of societal decline for museums as civil society organizations, including an examination of the untapped potential of museums to contribute to the reimagining and transitioning to a new society in the face of collapse or possible extinction. Given the uncertainty of the world, collapse is not inevitable. Museums, as key civic and intellectual resources with ethical responsibilities, must now examine the meaning and value of their work. As institutions of the commons, belonging to and affecting the public at large, museums can commit to enhancing societal wellbeing and the durability of the more‐than‐human world. There is an important lesson in the history of museums, and that is their ability to learn and adapt as circumstances require. Urgent museum participation is now possible and essential.

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