ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book provides a synergistic exploration of the three areas of heritage, dialogue and digital to highlight the plurality of understandings, terms and definitions of European heritage, dialogue and digital within European heritage institutions and the discrepancies and tensions that arise in both the conceptualisation and articulation of their interrelationships. It aims to contribute the discourse on the ‘dialogic museum’ by critically reflecting on the lack of common language and understandings in both conceptualising and practically mobilising dialogue in heritage institutions. The book explores individual European policies on cultural heritage, intercultural dialogue and digital technologies for heritage to identify points of conversion and diversion on how dialogue is understood. It focuses on key tensions arising from these policies, such as the role of intercultural dialogue and access to heritage resources to support harmonious societies in the context of digital public sphere.
