Aquarium Zen

Doing some research in the AZA report called Why Zoos Matter.

Much of the report is pretty straight forward. In a nutshell: zoos and aquariums reinforce visitor's connection with nature and commitment to conservation.

One part jumped out at me. The study classified a certain percentage of zoo and aquarium visitors as "spiritual pilgrims."

Spiritual Pilgrim
Finding: Spiritual Pilgrims are the smallest group overall (4%), with very different needs, and tend to be more common in aquariums.
Implications: Aquariums and zoos need to balance the needs of Spiritual Pilgrims with those of other visitors (e.g., the very social Facilitators). Zoos and aquariums could create areas for reflection, and offer programs at quieter times of day or year. Like Professional/Hobbyists, Spiritual Pilgrims represent a great source of volunteers, members and donors.

The conservation message of a zoo or aquarium doesn't just elicit action and sympathy on the part of the animals ... it inspires introspection on the part of the visitor. Interesting...