Nationalism and identity in museum activities

Abstract

Abstract provided by author:

This paper discuss around how and why to adapt museum activities to contemporary circumstances. The emphasis is on how Nationalism and Identity is reflected in museum activities. Three museums in Namibia are used as examples. The paper has a pronounced qualitative and problem oriented approach. Eight informants have given their professional and personal descriptions concerning the topical questions through interviews. Significant concepts and my own observations are also part of the analysis

National symbols are playing a major part when it comes to expressing Namibian national identity. Collected objects are material-centred in all three of the museums visited and oral evidence constitute only a small part, if at all existing, of the collections. Among people where oral traditions play, or have played, an important role museums are not always familiar. European historical development in general and European museum activities in particular have strongly influenced museum activities in Namibia. Before national independence the museums were only for two or three of the language groups. Since national attempts have been made in order to open the museums to all Namibians. The museums are also more or less trying to help in developing a national unity. As society changes it could also be of concern for museums to make a continuity for people