Paleogenomics and Museology: The museums and the Anthropocen’s paradox

Abstract

Paleogenomics researches has found in anthropological and historical collections a very rich source of material for analyzing genome of organisms that no longer exist. With museum objects, that new scientific area has been able to interpret the relationships between extinct and current species and provide evidence of anthropic action in extinction processes. By reinforcing the Anthropocene paradox - a new geological epoch based on destruction in order to prosper - museums start a discussion about taking risks of damaging and even losing museum collections in favor of scientific development. This article aims to contribute to the debate from a museological perspective, analyzing aspects related to responsibility and commitment to preservation and research in museums, with special attention to the aura of the object. It focuses on the specific case of one of the largest collections of drinking horns in the world, from the National Museum of Denmark, useful for the interpretation of the auroch’s extinction process. Finally, museums are recognized as allies to the Anthropocene paradox, whilst Museology is considered the most affected area by the dilemma. Therefore, attention to eight sets of questions is recommended, whenever this situation becomes real in a museum.