A sociological investigation into how contemporary societies shape the production, distribution, and consumption of arts.
In recent decades, social and economic changes have brought about a growing awareness of the role of art and culture in society. As a result, scholars have turned their attention to a sociological view of arts, developing hermeneutic approaches and conducting empirical research that have led to a wealth of insights into the organization of arts. These studies of the creation, production, distribution, evaluation and consumption of arts are clearly sociological, but they include approaches from other disciplines, notably arts management studies and cultural policy research. Volker Kirchberg and Tasos Zembylas critically discuss seven major theories of the social organization of arts in Western societies, with the aim of encouraging further research and theoretical developments.
Volker Kirchberg (Dr. phil.) ist Professor für die Soziologie der Künste am Institut für Soziologie und Kulturorganisation an der Leuphana Universität Lüneburg. Er lehrt und forscht im Schnittfeld von Stadt- und Kultursoziologie unter Heranziehung organisations- und nachhaltigkeitswissenschaftlicher Expertise.
Tasos Zembylas (Prof. Dr.) lehrt Kulturbetriebslehre an der Universität für Musik und Darstellende Kunst in Wien.
»With its rigorous analysis and multidisciplinary perspective, this book serves as a cornerstone in the fields of cultural sociology, art history and arts management. Its relevance extends beyond academic pursuits, making it an indispensable addition to a personal library of anyone who is deeply invested in understanding the social structures and dynamics that shape the world of art.«
Valerie Visanich, Cultural Trends, 25.03.2025 20250325
