It seems the corporate dollar has invaded the Smithsonian with a ironic presence not seen since the collection of museums opened. We've seen sports arenas, music halls, and other structures stripped of their names when corporate sponsors fork over the dollars. For example, the Brendan Byrne Arena, named after the governor of NJ, is now the Continental Arena, named after the airline.
But the Smithsonian may be going too far in attracting corporate sponsors for exhibits and such when it will rename the Museum of Natural History's Insect Zoo after Otto Orkin, founder of a pest extermination control company that bears his name. What better way to be remembered for killing insects than to have an insect zoo named after you?
To Overreact Some More?
The possibilities could continue. Think of it, one day you might be able to walk into the gift shop and pick up a box co-labeled Smithsonian-Orkin Ant Farm, or Smithsonian-Orkin Flea Circus. Or perhaps, an electronic children's nursery rhyme book:
Sat down to "rough it,"
Eating some curds and whey.
When along came a spider,
who sat down beside her,
but the Orkin man killed it that day.
Why, the swath of dollars promoting corporate culture could pave over our national culture--just like Disney tried to do (but was defeated) with a theme park "based" on the American Civil War.
Charging Admission?
Of course, the Smithsonian defends such practices, citing the continuing lack of funding as paving its own static future, or even one of decline. It is trying to find funds so it won't have to charge admission. Currently, all the museums are free.
Should the Smithsonian charge a small admission of $1 or $2 per person? The nation's attic may need to do so, if for no other reason than to avoid renaming everything in some corporate image.
Thoughts and opinions? E-mail us at magweb@magweb.com.
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