Understanding Cultural Policy: Government and the Arts and Culture in the United States

This textbook provides an introduction to cultural policy in the US, tracing the contemporary system of national, state, and local arts and cultural agencies and covering critical issues such as the Culture Wars, culture-led development, and gentrification. It includes enhanced visualizations and policy maps, expanded policy labs, and a new section on cultural policy during COVID-19.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 17 April 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive textbook offers an in-depth exploration of cultural policy in the United States, providing a valuable resource for students and practitioners alike. It begins by delving into the historical roots of cultural policy in the country, tracing its evolution from its early foundations to the contemporary system of national, state, and local arts and cultural agencies. Through detailed case studies and insightful analysis, the book offers a comprehensive framework for understanding how government regulation and provision shape the arts and culture.

Key topics covered include the Culture Wars, culture-led development and gentrification, and the challenges of field-wide data and research capacities in the arts and culture sector. The book also addresses critical issues such as the role of the government in supporting artists and cultural organizations, the preservation of cultural heritage, and the promotion of cultural diversity.

In addition to its theoretical insights, the textbook is richly illustrated with examples of cultural policy in action, drawn from a wide range of sectors and contexts. These examples help to bring the theory to life and provide a practical understanding of how cultural policy is implemented on the ground.

The new edition of this textbook has been extensively revised and updated to reflect the latest developments in the field. It includes enhanced visualizations and policy maps to facilitate understanding of complex concepts, expanded policy labs to encourage hands-on learning, and a new section on cultural policy during COVID-19, which explores the impact of the pandemic on the arts and culture sector and the responses of governments and organizations to address these challenges.

Overall, this textbook is an essential reading for students and reflective practitioners of arts and cultural management and administration. It provides a comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of cultural policy in the United States, equipping readers with the tools they need to navigate the complex terrain of the arts and culture sector and contribute to its development and growth.

Weight: 710g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032392264
Edition number: 2 ed