Dear ICOM Colleagues

First, let me say I really appreciate all the responses received about the
definition 
of a ³museum.² However, this attempt to define a museum has contributed more
questions than answers. These questions have been asked (among others):

Is a museum always public or can it be private?
Does ³not for profit² mean that a museum cannot make money?
Must a museum have a collection?
What is research? 
Is interpretation the same as research?
Are virtual museums (which have no ³buildings²) really museums?
Are heritage (cultural) centers museums since they often have no
collections.
Must a museum ³preserve² objects to be considered a museum?
If some forms of song and dance are intangible heritage, are concert halls
museums?

I think I know the answers to each of these questions, but it is apparent
that not everyone has the same view. My thinking is not based on ego; it is,
however, the result of background, experience, and training. Those same
attributes cause others to think and believe differently. That is why
finding a common ground of acceptance is important.

One of the many important contributions ICOM has made to the museum
profession is the Code of Ethics. The people who first formulated the Code
probably had no idea of the dynamic and professionalizing role it would play
in the international community. (They are to be applauded for their
contribution.) As the Code has evolved to meet the needs of today¹s museums,
the definition of ³museum² as determined by the ICOM membership and which is
the heart of the Code, must offer a clear message of identity. We are the
International Council of Museums; so who are we? When we say ³museum² what
do we mean‹a building, a place, a collection, a process, a vision of the
past, or an idea for the future?

Gary Edson

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