Pirates of the Smithsonian

Whose side are you on in this debate? Use examples and terminology from Chapter 10 in your Practices of Looking text to back up your argument. This should be a substantial post. It should certainly be longer than the typical 2 paragraphs to really present a comprehensive argument.

In regards to the Smithsonian exhibit, I have to say that I am against them showing it. Their mission statements don't agree with the scenario that was played out. Although I do believe the remains from the ship should try to be saved and put on display, I don't think the Smithsonian should be who is leading or showing the exhibit. In a society and world that now allows for the accessibility of art (via franchising and global sharing,) I think that there needs to be some dignity left. They have no business showing an exhibit that has no cultural relationship. I think if it were ran by Chinese or the Western Asian groups that have more of a cultural relationship toward the artifacts then toured the exhibit around the world, that would be appropriate. If global media was not what it is today I would probably be in favor of the Smithsonian showing the exhibit and promote it. But with travel more accessible not only physically, but visually, I just can't find myself in agreement with them showing the exhibit. If we keep this exhibit in foreign territory where it didn't originate, not only do we not stimulate the global economy, but we decrease the voyeurs experience of the art. Not to mention, the relationships between the US and other countries, especially in middle eat & asia, would be negatively influenced; more so than they already are. As a means of respect I think we owe it to our global community to set aside greed and glory and embrace and encourage not only the traditions of other cultures & communities, but by doing so, we give credit to the art that was made for the advancement of knowledge and understanding.