Controversy and Critical Exhibitions: Envisioning a Fourth Generation of Science Museums

Abstract

The book Controversy in Science Museums: Re-imagining Exhibition Spaces and Practice by Erminia Pedretti and Ana Maria Navas Iannini presents a masterful analysis of the nature of science museums and their exhibitions. Critical exhibitions challenge how science is represented traditionally and can be transformative by inspiring visitors to grapple intelligently with the serious socio-scientific issues encountered in their everyday lives. The book is an elegant exposition of theory, practice, and research, compiled by authors who know and understand this genre of science museum exhibitions. This review explores the themes that enable the authors to provide a thought-provoking, practical analysis that can assist the leaders of science museums to further the successful evolution of transformative and critical exhibitions.