Digital Humanities and Museums: Cultural Practices and Ethical Issues

Abstract

The humanities and social sciences (HSS) encompass a wide range of disciplines, from psychology to sociology, as well as anthropology, history, and many others. These disciplines analyze social relationships and their dynamics, thereby influencing how societies evolve. They play a crucial role in understanding social issues and contribute to solving certain problems and challenges. In this context, the evolution of information and communication technologies, and more specifically digital technologies and artificial intelligence, has profoundly impacted the HSS. The rise of digital humanities contributes to a significant reconfiguration of human practices and activities, both across society and in artistic and cultural domains, particularly in museum practices. However, AI raises questions about the authenticity and aura of artworks and brings up ethical, technical, and social challenges. This prompts a fundamental question: to what extent do digital humanities contribute to the preservation of cultural specificities while raising new ethical issues? Through this article, we aim to examine this issue by referring to case studies of digital museums in two culturally different countries, highlighting the role of artificial intelligence in facilitating access to and democratizing artistic and cultural practices. We also aim to emphasize the main challenges and issues resulting from this transformation.