TIES AND IDENTITY BONDS. MUSEUMEDUCATION AND COGNITIVE CONSERVATISM

Abstract

The article discusses the complexity of identity,the interdependence of social and cultural identity, andtheir relationship with museum education. The Authoremphasizes that an individual’s identity is shaped both bytheir membership in a social group and the internalizationof its cultural values. With respect to museums, institutionalemployment contributes to identity formation, whilecultural identity stems from museum narratives. The Authoranalyzes individual identity as a manifestation of cognitiveconservatism influenced by neurophysiological mechanisms.The Author argues that museum education can play a significantrole in transforming individual identity, especially by exposingindividuals to diverse perspectives and values. The researchindicating the potential for lasting changes in preferences asa result of educational activities is cited. The Author highlightsthe importance of social bonds formed within the museum,and suggests expanding the perspective of relational art toinclude the experiences of museum education. Furthermore,it is also emphasized that museum education initiatives shouldnot be viewed as tools for analyzing the museum institutionbut as opportunities for participants to express themselves andbuild connections with one another.

Keywords

• identity
• museum
• conservatism
• museum education
• relational art