Cultural Economies

Module description

This module introduces students to key arguments about the various ways that economics increasingly underpins the cultural sector and the creative industries. The module outlines broad concepts that provide the students with foundational knowledge about cultural economics, cultural markets and cultural value. Recent changes, such as the digitisation of culture are introduced which help students identify and understand how the economics of culture is subject to change. Students will also learn about the way cultural labour is valued and often de-valued and the structures of cultural economies which enable inequality. A wide variety of cultural sectors and products will be examined including cultural heritage, festivals and cities of culture. Students will also consider the impacts of cultural production on the environment and innovative ways to change the footprint of culture, media and creative industries.

Assessment details

Coursework weighted at 100% - 3,000-word Essay

Educational aims & objectives

This module aims to:

• Introduce key concepts and approaches within the study of cultural economies;
• Critically explore debates surrounding the increasing emphasis on the economics of culture;
• Provide an overview of the histories of cultural economies, cultural markets and cultural production;
• Strengthen the student's ability to critically analyse the impact of economics on the cultural sector.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to demonstrate their ability to:

• Critically understand the central themes and approaches in the study of cultural economies;
• Examine a range of theories, histories and case studies and apply appropriate conceptual tools to independently analyse them;
• Reflect on the impact of economics on the cultural sector;
• Use critical thinking to consider the impacts of cultural economics on society, creative work and the environment.

Teaching pattern

Ten one-hour lectures and ten one-hour seminars

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.