What instrumentalism? A public perception of value

In recent years there has been much debate about the perceived “instrumentalism” of arts policy, suggesting a lack of clarity and consensus about the outcomes that arts policy should seek to achieve. In 2006 Arts Council England set out to address this through a major public inquiry. The inquiry involved research and consultation to explore how members of the public value the arts and their priorities for public funding. This article describes how participants approached the question of value in different contexts and how views shifted over the course of the inquiry. It shows how initial views focused on the “intrinsic” value of the arts that people experience as individual consumers. Introducing the concept of public funding prompted a move to more “instrumental” concerns. The process of deliberation resulted in a balanced view, where the arts were seen to make a positive contribution to society providing the experience is enriching and enjoyed by large and diverse numbers of people. The article concludes by considering some of the policy implications of the findings and highlighting the need for the Arts Council to build legitimacy through ongoing dialogue and debate.