Topic
SHOULD GOVERNMENTS SUBSIDISE THE ARTS?
Instructions
Should governments subsidize the arts? Explain your answer using relevant examples to illustrate your points.
Your essay will demonstrate your ability to:
- Investigate the topic/question
- Source apposite material
- Undertake original research
- Construct a coherent argument.
Answer Preview
Arts are essential contributors to the economy. The impact is quantifiable in terms of direct input, and indirect significance through employment in art and culture industries. For example, the Arts Council England estimated that the arts and culture made more impact on the UK economy than agriculture in 2016 (Brown, 2019). The report showed that the arts contributed £390 million more to the economy compared to the previous year, reaching £10.8billion. Further analysis of data between 2009 and 2016 revealed a year-on-year increase in the value provided by the arts to the economy. Consistent with the rising value is job creation in the industry. The economy had added 260,000 jobs in the economy, contributing indirectly to the economic wellbeing of people working in arts and culture organisations. It also contributes to the economy through treasury taxes worth about £2.8 billion to the government (Shepherd, 2019). Recent data shows that the arts are enjoying robust growth. For example, the Theatres in the UK reported over 34 million visitors in 2018 with more than 62,000 art performances that generated 1.28billion (Official London Theatre, 2019).
Word Count: 2300