Teacher Talks
Ethics in Biology: Navigating the Ethical Legacy of Human Remains in Education and Museums
Penn Museum
Tuesday, Nov. 12 2024, 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm ET
The theme of the 2024-2025 Teacher Talk Series is “Curricular Connections.” We’ll explore how your class subjects interact with the Museum, our Collections, and the professionals that work here.
Ethical concerns surrounding the collection and use of human remains in museums and universities have gained increasing attention, forcing institutions to confront their complex and often controversial histories. Remains acquired during colonial times or through unethical practices raise questions about consent and the treatment of marginalized communities. As institutions reevaluate their educational and research practices, they face the dilemma of whether to continue using human remains or their replicas in training future scholars. These discussions also influence how human remains are approached in K-12 education, shaping young students' understanding of ethics, history, and cultural respect.
Dinner will be provided, Act 48 Credits and parking vouchers available.