Science Fiction at the Natural History Museum

Abstract

ABSTRACT:This paper explores the “science fictions” encapsulated in natural history museums through an exploration of select examples at Oxford University Museum of Natural History. In this context, the scaffold of historical myths, half-truths, and assumptions behind facts presented in natural history museums as well as epistemological holes papered over when presenting complex information succinctly in museum interpretation are considered science fictions. The science fictions that surround the Oxford dodo, the Museum’s statues of scientist luminaries, and the whale skeletons and fluid-preserved cephalopod specimens on display are examined. Behind the contemporary authoritative interpretation of each of these are stories of mythological creatures, imagined histories, deeply subjective assumptions, pseudo-science, and informed speculation. Lastly, a speculative look is taken at the science fictions of today that are undoubtedly being incorporated into new displays at the museum, currently in development.