There are a variety of theories which purport to explain how cultural consumption is, or is not, related to social structure. However, the empirical validity of many of these theories is open to serious challenge. You are invited to a seminar at City University, London, from 10.30am – 4.30pm on 3 April 2007. It focuses on the research findings from a project carried out by Tak Wing Chan and John Goldthorpe from the Department of Sociology, University of Oxford, under the joint ESRC-AHRC Cultures of Consumption Research Programme. Wing and John’s work is based on extensive secondary analyses of data from the Arts in England Survey, 2001, one of the largest national surveys of arts participation undertaken to date. They consider what these analyses reveal about the influence of different forms of social stratification – class, status, income, education – on individuals’ participation in the arts. Until now, these factors have not been adequately distinguished; nor have their implications been considered in relation to potential developments in cultural policy, public funding, access and social inclusion. Although Wing and John’s analyses pertain chiefly to the arts, their work is relevant to museums, heritage and other areas of cultural consumption. Commentaries on the research and its interpretation are being invited from those who work in cultural policy, administration and academia. Speakers include: * Catherine Bunting, Director of Research at the Arts Council England * Andrew Newman, Director, International Centre for Cultural and Heritage Studies, University of Newcastle upon Tyne * Orian Brook, Research and Intelligence Manager, Audiences London * Ben Cowell, Head of Museums Sponsorship Unit, Department for Culture Media and Sport Ample time will be provided for general discussion and networking. For more information, CLICK HERE