
cbsnews.com
White House Orders Smithsonian Museum Review to Promote "American Exceptionalism
The White House launched an internal review of eight Smithsonian museums, including the National Museum of African American History and Culture, to promote "American exceptionalism" and remove what it deems "divisive language," following President Trump's March executive order. Museums must submit information within 30 days and implement content changes within 120 days.
- What is the immediate impact of the White House's review on the Smithsonian's museums?
- The White House initiated an internal review of eight Smithsonian museums, aiming to promote "American exceptionalism" and remove perceived "divisive language." This follows President Trump's March executive order, seeking to reshape cultural institutions. The review will examine exhibits, future plans, and internal processes, with museums expected to make content corrections within 120 days.
- How does this action fit within President Trump's broader agenda regarding American cultural institutions?
- This action reflects President Trump's broader attempt to influence the narrative presented in U.S. cultural institutions, aligning with his stated goal of combating ideological bias. The review's focus on removing "divisive language" and promoting "American exceptionalism" is part of a larger political agenda, triggering criticism from Democrats who see it as undermining the Smithsonian's independence.
- What are the potential long-term consequences of this review for the presentation of American history at the Smithsonian?
- The long-term impact of this review could involve a shift in the historical narratives presented at the Smithsonian, potentially influencing public perception of American history. This could lead to further debates about the role of political influence in shaping cultural institutions and the balance between promoting national identity and presenting a comprehensive historical record.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative frames the White House's actions as a necessary correction of ideological bias within the Smithsonian, emphasizing the administration's push for changes and the resulting review. The headline and initial paragraphs focus on the White House's initiative, setting the tone and potentially influencing the reader's perception of the Smithsonian's role in the matter. The Smithsonian's response is presented later and with less emphasis. The use of quotes from the White House letter and the executive order reinforces this framing.
Language Bias
The language used in the article generally maintains a neutral tone, reporting events and statements accurately. However, the use of terms like "divisive," "ideologically driven," and "improper ideology" reflects the White House's framing of the issue. While the article reports this language, the neutral alternatives are not explicitly offered, allowing the White House's framing to remain prominent.
Bias by Omission
The analysis focuses heavily on the White House's perspective and actions, giving less detailed information on the Smithsonian's response and arguments. The perspectives of the Democratic members of the House Administration Committee are mentioned, but a more balanced inclusion of diverse viewpoints from historians, museum professionals, and other stakeholders would strengthen the analysis. The removal of Trump impeachment references from the National Museum of American History is mentioned, but the context surrounding this decision and the Smithsonian's rationale for the initial omission and subsequent restoration are not fully explored.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by framing the issue as a choice between "celebrating American exceptionalism" and presenting "divisive or ideologically driven language." This simplifies a complex issue, ignoring the possibility of presenting a nuanced and inclusive history of America that acknowledges both its achievements and its flaws. The framing also implies that these two concepts are mutually exclusive.
Sustainable Development Goals
The White House review of Smithsonian museums aims to remove what it considers "divisive or ideologically driven language". This action could negatively impact quality education by limiting access to diverse perspectives and potentially promoting a biased version of history. The review's focus on "American exceptionalism" and the removal of content deemed "improper ideology" suggests a narrowing of historical narratives, hindering a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of American history crucial for quality education.