What Does It Mean to Be Human?
Every year, the Museum of Science shines a light on a topic we think is integral to understanding the world around us. In 2025, this spotlight is focused on us, as in all of humanity. We call it Being Human.
Through exhibits, films, online experiences, curriculum, and more, we hope you’ll join us on this yearlong journey as we seek to answer the question: how are we all connected?
Featured Exhibits
Green Wing, Level 2
Transport yourself inside the artist’s brain via a retro-future “thinking cap” and gain a greater understanding of ourselves and of one another through interactions with this unique sonic portrait by artist Beatie Wolfe.
Green Wing, Level 2
Explore what it means to be human in a time of rapid change. How are we transforming our world, and how is it changing our biology today and across generations?
Perception Playground
Green Wing, Level 2
Visit this playful and interactive exhibit to experience illusions and effects that reveal the surprising ways your brain actively constructs your perception of reality.
Superhuman Body: World of Medical Marvels
This giant-screen film takes you inside the wonders of the human body and the incredible breakthroughs in science and bioengineering that are changing the course of human health.
The Big Question
The science that will impact your life years from now is being pioneered by visionaries today. Do you know what jaw-dropping discoveries are being made, who’s making them, and why? World-renowned ethicist Insoo Hyun engages a science luminary in a compelling, intimate conversation exploring the ripple effects that recent groundbreaking discoveries and advancements have on the very existence of humanity.
Are we on the brink of another pandemic? Bioethicist Insoo Hyun of the Museum of Science and co-host Vardit Ravitsky of The Hastings Center sit down with Dr. Anthony Fauci, former Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and a trusted adviser to seven U.S. presidents, including George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump. Dr. Fauci reflects on the lessons of COVID-19, the threat of emerging pandemics, and the dangers of misinformation during a health crisis.
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Educational Resources
Explore standards-aligned PreK–8 curricula.
Find real-world design challenges that celebrate Being Human! From engineering Bandages to Medicine Coolers, these student-tested, educator-approved curricula will deepen students' understanding of the world around them.
Learn from these interactive resources.
Whether it is how our bodies work here on Earth or up in space, why our hair changes or why we sweat or even the people who help us learn more about being humans, join us on this yearlong journey as we learn how are we all connected.
Stay informed
Rapid change is the only constant in life sciences.
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