museology

Museology is the study of museums and their role in society, encompassing the history, theory, and practice of collecting, conserving, interpreting, and presenting objects and ideas to the public. It brings together elements from anthropology, art history, science, education, conservation, and administration to analyze how museums function and influence culture.

The discipline covers governance and policy, collections management, provenance research, conservation and restoration, exhibition planning and interpretation, research, education programs, and public programming. It also examines audience engagement, accessibility, and the social responsibilities of museums, including ethical issues such as deaccessioning, repatriation, and the representation of diverse communities.

Traditionally associated with curators and conservators, museology has grown into an interdisciplinary field taught in university programs and research centers. It developed during the professionalization of museums in the 19th and 20th centuries and today benefits from international standards and networks, notably through organizations such as the International Council of Museums (ICOM).

In practice, museology informs how collections are acquired, documented, stored, and displayed; how exhibitions are designed to educate and engage; and how digital technologies, online catalogs, and new media expand access. It emphasizes interpretation strategies, audience research, evaluation, and learning opportunities for diverse publics.

Contemporary museology addresses ethics, equity, and decolonization, seeking inclusive representation and collaborative community involvement. It views museums as evolving cultural institutions shaped by politics, heritage, technology, and globalization, and it situates the museum within broader discussions of memory, identity, and public value.