Introduction: Natural History Dioramas and Socio-cultural Aspects

Originally, natural history dioramas were a nineteenth century development, but they have evolved with the passage of time and changes in cultural norms in societies. More recently they focus on the changes during the Anthropocene era and how such information can be effectively accessed and understood by visitors. This chapter is the introduction to an edited book. It focuses on socio-cultural issues and the potential of using natural history dioramas in museums to assist learners in developing and understanding specific concepts and to engage various audiences with – and in – contemporary debates and big issues, which society and the natural environment are facing, such as biodiversity loss.