In January of 2000, the American Museum of Natural History in New York City decided that the sequencing of the human genome – perhaps one of the most significant advances of our lifetime. would make an interesting and compelling story for the general public. As a genome scientist working at the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH), this interest in making the science of the genome available to the general public both excited and alarmed me. Most of the exhibitions here are soundly and rigidly based on sample specimens: diamonds, pearls, amber, body art, dinosaurs and a host of other subjects that have been treated in temporary exhibitions over the past decade. However, the social and ethical ramifications of these other subjects pale in comparison to those raised by genomics.


The exhibition of the difficult subjects concerning ethics and social issues was accomplished by maintaining a focus on the visitor. By using very clear descriptions of ethical problems, we were able to describe the problems inherent in the advancing technology with respect to gene therapy, genetic testing, genetically modified foods, reproductive technology and cloning, eugenics, and privacy issues. As an example, the ramifications of the technology with respect to genetically modified foods was discussed reportage-style, wherein both sides of the issue explained and discussed their views, with very provocatively designed exhibits of genetically modified organisms as a backdrop for their presentations.

It would be impossible to see every exhibit in the museum in one visit. look at list of recommended exhibits and make a plan for which things you'd most like to see. The American Museum of Natural History has frequently changing exhibitions that offer deeper insight into some of the museum's many popular topics. The American Museum of Natural History has several shops, including ones dedicated specifically to the special exhibitions. The theater about 15 minutes before showtime. This also gives you a bit of time in the event you get lost enroute.

Robert LaSalle was head curator of The Genomic Revolution exhibition at the American Museum of Natural History, which took place between May 26, 2001 and January 1, 2002. He presently co-directs the museum’s Molecular Systematics Laboratories and curates its Division of Invertebrate Zoology.

Open daily 10:00am – 5:45pm. Rose Center remains open until 8:45 p.m. on the first Friday of every month. The Museum is closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

tags: American, Museum, Natural, History.