Is a Science/Art Museum practical?

[Ken Kinman]

Dear All,
      Speaking of natural history museums being run by business majors, what
about a museum like ROM which is a natural history and arts museum rolled
into one?  Not only is there the clash between business vs. science, but
also potential clashes between preservation of scientific specimens and
works of art.  Can technology presently solve such potential clashes in a
cost effective manner.
      Is the ROM headed for a wonderful new synthesis that other museums
will emulate, or something more akin to a protracted conflict of interests
which slowly and short-sightedly undermines human curatorial and research
expertise?  Is the business gamble (counting on greatly increasing
attendance) going to be good or bad for science in the long run?  Are
expansion funds being spent in the best manner?  I guess noone really knows
for sure, but here's one recent article on the situation:


http://www.globeandmail.com/servlet/ArticleNews/PEstory/TGAM/20030118/RVROMM/Arts/thearts/theartsArtHeadline_temp/1/1/5/


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