Sociology of the Arts

This is a comprehensive overview of the sociology of art and an authoritative work of scholarship by a leading expert in the field. The international selection of perspectives, empirical research, and case studies makes this book essential for teaching and studying the sociology of art. Synthesizes the various theoretical models of art sociology. Provides empirical examples of books, films, television shows, dance, and music, as well as exemplars of sociological work on the arts. Discusses works from both fine and popular ends of the cultural spectrum. Explores how art is created, distributed, received, consumed, and used by people who experience it.

Preface. 1. Introduction: What is Art?. Part I: The Relationship between Art and Society. 2. Reflection Approaches. Case Study. The Reflection of Race in Children's Books. 3. Shaping Theory. Case Study. Violence and Television. 4. A Mediated View: The Cultural Diamond. Part II: The Cultural Diamond. A. The Production of Culture. 5. Art Worlds. Case Study. From Academy to Public Sale. 6. Culture Industries. Case Study. Innovation and Diversity in the Production of Music. 7. Networks and Nonprofits. Case Study. Piccolos on the Picket Line: A Strike in the Symphony. 8. Artists. Case Study. Nothing Succeeds Like Success: Careers in the Film Industry. 9. Globalization. Case Study. The Return of the Elgin (or Parthenon) Marbles?. B. The Consumption of Culture. 10. Reception Approaches. Case Study. Romance Novels as Combat and Compensation. 11. Audience Studies. Case Study. Cowboys, Indians, and Western Movies. 12. Art and Social Boundaries. Case Study. Framing Heavy Metal and Rap Music. Part III: Art in Society. 13. The Art Itself. Case Study. The Renaissance Way of Seeing. 14. The Constitution of Art in Society. Case Study. A Strange Sensation: Controversies in Art. Part IV: Conclusion. 15. Studying Art Sociologically. Notes. References.