"Why Do People Collect Things? The Role of Curation in Modern Society"

Hatched by Kazuki
Jul 11, 2023
4 min read
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"Why Do People Collect Things? The Role of Curation in Modern Society"
Collecting things has been a part of human behavior for centuries, and it serves various purposes. People collect objects out of curiosity, the desire for recognition, the need to possess and control, the need for social interaction, a sense of progress and accomplishment, and even altruism. As James L. Halperin suggests, our ancient ancestors who accumulated scarce objects may have had a higher chance of survival and reproduction. The search for value, whether emotional or monetary, is often a driving force behind collecting.
But does the collector's psychology relate to learning in public? It is possible that collectors are drawn to the idea of learning and expanding their knowledge through their collections. They may see their collections as a way to showcase their expertise and share their passion with others. By curating their collections, they become knowledgeable in specific areas and gain recognition within their communities.
Curiosity plays a significant role in collecting. The act of collecting exposes individuals to new information, ideas, and perspectives. It allows them to dive deep into a subject and acquire knowledge that they may not have otherwise encountered. Curators, whether they are individuals or brands, have the responsibility of sorting through culture and showing us what we need to know and why. They act as caretakers of objects, bringing art and knowledge to different sections of society.
Curation is not just about collecting physical objects; it also extends to curating knowledge. Curating content means collecting passages, clippings, and quotes that are useful in both the short and long term. It involves gathering knowledge from reliable sources and creating a curated collection of information. In web highlighters, for example, users can collect excerpts about topics they are interested in and connect with others who share similar interests. This sense of community and belonging further enhances the pleasure of collecting.
In today's society, curation has become a crucial strategy for brands to differentiate themselves, gain relevance, build equity, and ensure longevity. The aesthetic world and the narrative that curation creates are much harder to replicate than a brand's visual identity or tone of voice. Brands have shifted from solely manufacturing products to manufacturing culture, design, luxury, and art. By curating the old and giving it renewed meaning and purpose, brands breathe new life into existing products and create a sense of novelty for consumers.
Curation goes beyond just selecting and showcasing objects; it involves research, writing, and editing. A good curator brings a fresh perspective to old things and connects them with new ideas, creating a unique and valuable experience for the audience. Curators act as bridges between different taste communities, introducing them to one another and fostering connections. They play a fundamental role in shaping culture and facilitating the exchange of ideas.
So, how can we apply the principles of curation in our own lives? Here are three actionable pieces of advice:
- 1. Embrace curiosity and collect knowledge: Cultivate a curious mindset and actively seek out new information and ideas. Create a curated collection of knowledge that is meaningful to you and share it with others who may benefit from it.
- 2. Foster connections and build community: Engage with others who share your interests and passions. Connect with like-minded individuals, whether through online platforms or in-person events. By building a community around your collections, you can enhance your own experience and contribute to the collective knowledge of the group.
- 3. Find your unique perspective: Look for new angles on old things and connect them with contemporary ideas. Bring your own voice and perspective to your collections, whether they are physical objects or curated knowledge. By infusing your personal touch, you can create something that is simultaneously familiar and innovative.
In conclusion, collecting things and curating knowledge are deeply ingrained in human behavior. People collect for various reasons, and the act of collecting often goes hand in hand with learning and expanding one's knowledge. Curation plays a crucial role in modern society, democratizing art and knowledge, and allowing brands to differentiate themselves. By embracing curiosity, fostering connections, and finding our unique perspectives, we can apply the principles of curation in our own lives and enhance our overall experience. We are what we collect, and we collect what we are.
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