Science is... at the Birmingham Museum of Science and Industry

Abstract

Science interpretation in museums has, until now, largely focused on the products of science—the technological artefacts of our scientific past and the scientific phenomena presented in hands-on galleries. Little, if anything, is said about the process of science—what it is, how it's done, who does it, and why. For this reason, the Birmingham Museum of Science and Industry is planning a new gallery based on science itself. Science is... will interpret science from a cultural perspective by looking at how culture affects science, and how changes in scientific thought have changed our own views of ourselves and the world around us. The objectives of the exhibition are: to raise awareness that science is a key part of our culture; to increase understanding of the method, history and philosophy of science and the scientific community; and to promote realistic images of science and scientists. Using the example of the Copernican Revolution, part of the gallery will focus on changing ideas in science, how change is affected by culture, and the consequences of accepting new scientific theories.