ABSTRACT

In this final chapter the authors reflect on, and expand upon, the theoretical landscapes that informed their work: progressive views of scientific literacy, models of science communication, and the construct of controversy. Acknowledging the evolving roles of science museums, the authors argue that fourth generation science museums, through their spaces and practices, can promote and become places for social transformation, productive struggle, allyship, empathy, and epistemic democracy, while acting as a hybrid third space. The chapter concludes with a new metaphor for understanding the changing identities and shifting functions of contemporary science museums.