Politicians today often claim that the arts are now not only good in themselves, but make a vital contribution to the economy, urban regeneration and social inclusion. But is there actually any evidence to support this?

This collection shows that many of the claims made about the social benefits of arts are exaggerated, resulting in wasteful projects of poor artistic quality. The criteria for funding means that arts organisations are drowning under a tidal wave of ‘tick boxes and targets’.

Mirza, M., Belfore, E., Selwood, S., Appleton, J., Heartfield, J. And Brighton, A. (2006). Culture Vultures: Is the UK arts policy damaging the arts? London: Policy Exchange.