Jeffrey Miron
President Trump has issued an executive order that requires the Smithsonian Institution to post
new “temporary exhibits or signage” … outside the National Museum of American History (NMAH), “warning” visitors about “the Ideological Capture” of the museum.
The “ideological capture” is a reference to allegations that the White House made against leaders … in a blistering July 4 report[,] … accusing the museum and its leaders of presenting “a radical view of American history.”
The Smithsonian, naturally, disagrees with the administration’s characterization. Is there a way to resolve this debate?
Yes, by eliminating government funding and oversight of the Smithsonian. No “market failure” justifies such intervention; the private sector can and does supply museums when demand is sufficient.
Some might believe government control of history promotes the “right” view. That is precisely the negative of government support.
Cross-posted from Substack.
