Should museums prioritize interactive exhibits over preserving originals?
I've been to museums in three countries this year, and each one had sections roped off or labeled with 'do not touch' signs. But I noticed kids—and honestly, some adults—learning more from interactive displays than from staring at glass cases. Should museums prioritize hands-on exhibits over preserving artifacts in their original condition? I get that conservation matters, but if no one connects with the objects, what's the point of keeping them pristine? Maybe there's a middle ground where replicas take the brunt of visitor interaction while originals stay protected.