Economics and Culture

This book brings together two very disparate areas, economics and culture, considering both the economic aspects of cultural activity, and the cultural context of economics and economic behavior. The author discusses how cultural goods are valued in both economic and cultural terms, and introduces the concepts of cultural capital and sustainability. The book goes on to discuss the economics of creativity in the production of cultural goods and services; culture in economic development; the cultural industries; and cultural policy. An important topic analyzed in a stimulating and nontechnical style.

Considers the relationship between economic materialism and cultural identity in a globalised world
Develops concepts which forge links between the way economists and cultural theorists think about cultural phenomena
Written in a non-technical style accessible to non-economists interested in culture, the arts and the formulation of cultural policy

Reviews & endorsements

'What a pleasure to read an economic analysis of culture and a cultural critique of economics by a well-trained, thoroughly cultured economist! This is a book we all ought to read.' Mark Blaug, University of Amsterdam

'David Throsby has long been known as a leading contributor in cultural economics. His book marks a major step forward: far from a mindless application of orthodox economics to the arts, he does full justice to the special characteristics, without giving up good economic reasoning. His treatment of the value of the arts, of cultural capital and heritage are of special note.' Bruno S. Frey, University of Zurich

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