Explains the key concepts, theories, and studies in the sociology of the arts - the fully updated new edition of the classic textbook
Sociology of the Arts is a comprehensive yet accessible review of sociological approaches to studying the fine, popular, and folk arts. Integrating scholarly literature, theoretical models, and empirical studies, this authoritative textbook provides balanced coverage of a broad range of essential topics - enabling a deeper understanding of the field as a whole. Throughout the text, numerous real-world case studies reinforce key concepts, stimulate classroom discussion, and encourage students to contemplate abstract theoretical issues central to the relationship between art and society.
Now in its second edition, this bestselling volume features fully revised content that reflects the most recent literature and research in the field. New discussion on the production and the consumption of culture are complemented by fresh perspectives on changes in the social world such as the rise of the internet and digital media. Updated chapters offer insights into social boundaries and embodiment in the arts, emplacement, materiality, the social construction of art and aesthetics, and more. Exploring how art is created, distributed, received, and consumed, this textbook:
- Explores both classic work and new approaches in the sociology of the arts
- Features case studies and discussion questions on art forms including popular music, film, romance novels, visual arts, and classical music
- Discusses the meaning of artistic objects and why interpretations of art vary
- Examines the ways art intersects with race, gender, sexuality, and class
- Includes photographs, tables and figures, and a comprehensive reference list
Written by a leading scholar in the field, Sociology of the Arts: Exploring Fine and Popular Forms, Second Edition is an ideal textbook for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses on sociology of art and culture, media studies, anthropology of art, arts management, and the social history of art, and is a useful reference for established scholars studying any aspect of sociology of the arts.
Table of Contents
List of Illustrations vii
List of Tables ix
List of Figures xi
List of Boxes xiii
Preface and Acknowledgements xv
1 Introduction: What is Art? 1
Part I The Relationship between Art and Society 11
2 Reflection Approaches 13
Case Study 2.1 The Reflection of Race in Children’s Books 25
3 Shaping Approaches 29
Case Study 3.1 Violence in Popular Arts 43
4 A Mediated View: The Cultural Diamond 49
Part IIA The Cultural Diamond: The Production of Culture 53
5 Art Worlds and Artistic Fields 55
Case Study 5.1 From Academy to Public Sale 69
6 Businesses and Industries 75
Case Study 6.1 Innovation in Commercial Musical Theatre 89
7 Nonprofits and Networks 95
Case Study 7.1 Piccolos on the Picket Line: A Strike in the Symphony 108
8 Artists 113
Case Study 8.1 Nothing Succeeds Like Success: Careers in the Film Industry 129
Part IIB The Cultural Diamond: The Consumption of Culture 133
9 Consumption Approaches 135
Case Study 9.1 Romance Novels as Combat and Compensation 150
10 Sites and Experiences 155
Case Study 10.1 The Experience of Music 172
11 Identities 177
Case Study 11.1 Acropolis Now: National Identity and the Return of the Parthenon Marbles? 191
12 Distinction 199
Case Study 12.1 New Forms of Cultural Capital? Debates about Distinction 215
Part III Art in Society 221
13 The Art Itself 223
Case Study 13.1 The Renaissance Way of Seeing 241
14 The Constitution of Art in Society 245
Case Study 14.1 A Strange Sensation: Controversies in Art 263
Part IV Conclusion 269
15 Studying Art Sociologically 271
References 275
Index 299
