Defining the Museum: Struggling with a New Identity

Abstract

AbstractIn the Virtual Issue “Defining the Museum: Struggling with a New Identity,” Brenda Salguero traces the history of defining museums, pointing to the ongoing challenge of capturing the essence of this professional field. This study shows that power and privilege have always influenced and continue to shape the museum sector’s image of itself. Ultimately, Salguero advocates for a new approach to museum definitions, one that acknowledges the difference between aspiration and achievement, and holds up definitions as a touchstone for the field to advance its work.