The Franklin Institute: Screens Devour the Magic of Science?
2025-09-10
Revisiting the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, the author, filled with childhood nostalgia, finds the museum overwhelmed by touch-screen interactive displays, replacing the once-amazing hands-on exhibits. While some classic interactive experiments remain, they are poorly maintained and tucked away. The author argues that museums should return to their core mission: providing real, tangible science experiences, rather than engaging in a digital "experiential race to the bottom." Children need a break from screens, and connection to the real world. The museum's budget and space should be reallocated to enhance the physical, interactive exhibits.