635. Can a Museum Be the Conscience of a Nation?

Stephen Dubner interviews Nicholas Cullinan, the new director of the British Museum, about his background, goals, and approach to the museum's challenges. Cullinan discusses his working-class upbringing, his vision for modernizing the museum, including a major renovation project, and his thoughts on repatriation of contested artifacts like the Elgin Marbles and Benin Bronzes. He emphasizes collaboration, transparency, and expanding access to the museum's collection, both physically and digitally, while acknowledging the complexities and controversies surrounding the museum's history and holdings. Cullinan also touches on the importance of cultural institutions in society and the need to balance historical context with present-day concerns.