THE VALUE OF CULTURE (2nd - 6th August 2004)

This summer course will explore both types of interrelationships between economy and culture: economic aspects of culture as well as cultural aspects of the economy. In doing so, the course is fully interdisciplinary, contrasting different academic perspectives and theoretical angles. Topics that will be addressed include the following: In what respects do markets for art differ from other markets? Does the mode of financing of cultural goods (market income – government subsidies – charity donations) matter? How do cultural values and social relationships shape economic life? To address all this, the course will provide conceptual frameworks, case studies, and practical exercises, which will illuminate the analysis. The course is aimed at academics, graduate and advanced undergraduate students, in the fileds of humanities and social sciences as well as to professionals in the cultural field and others with an interest in economy and culture. Course Leaders: Arjo Klamer (Erasmus University), Olav Velthuis (Columbia University, New York) and Jack Amariglio (Merrimack College, USA).