Description:
This book provides a detailed account, and critique, of diverse approaches to the arts funding question, with a focus on the arm's length arts councils that are the norm in the Anglo-American world. It builds on economic methods, the liberal-egalitarian framework of John Rawls, the communitarian opposition to the liberal framework, the capabilities approach to equality, and the cultural conservatism of Roger Scruton and others. In each case, the book considers the very practical aspect of public funding of the arts, namely, what are the implications for what ought to receive priority, and what parts of the cultural world are best left to their own, private sector, devices. It is not a work of "arts advocacy". Rather, the book challenges assumptions, and sparks critical debate in the field.
Review Quotes:
"This should prove a useful book to its intended audience given its clear writing and line of development. In lieu of empirical illustration to drive home the points at hand, Rushton makes very effective use of personal anecdotes that help bring the subject to life. It should also be required reading for cultural economists." (Samuel Cameron, Journal of Cultural Economics, Vol. 48 (3), 2024)
"This convincing, original, and methodologically sound research will interest a wide audience, from medical sociologists and anthropologists, to public health professionals and students working on HIV/AIDS." (Marlyse Debergh, Lova - Journal of Feminist Anthropology and Gender Studies, issue 44, December, 2023)