Essay 025

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic: 

Governments spend huge amounts of money on arts. Some people feel that this is justified, whereas others feel that this money can be used for public health and education. Discuss both the views and give your opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

You should write at least 250 words.

It is necessary for governments to spend sufficient amount of money for the improvement and maintenance of public health and education, but allocating a certain amount for arts is also important for the comprehensive development of a nation.  Hence, the money set apart by government for arts should not be diverted and separate funds should be allocated for improving the social conditions in the country.

On the one hand, huge investments are required for providing basic health services and primary education for all sections of people.  Some people fear that large investments in establishing art galleries and preserving traditional art forms can shift government’s focus from more serious social issues.  For example, governments in many poor nations are not able to spend the required amount of money for the developing the educational and health sectors, which is said to be the major reason for their underdevelopment.  These governments, according to some, wastes large amounts of money for the development of arts.  

On the other hand, downplaying the importance of arts in a country is like neglecting the aesthetic, creative and emotional needs of the people.  For example, dance, music, drama, painting and similar arts have great importance in the cultural development of the people.  Allocation of funds in these areas by governments can also boost the economic development of the country.  Many people make a living by becoming the exponents of these art forms.  Moreover, preserving and maintaining the cultural traditions of the country through arts can attract tourists from all over the world.  Apart from their economic and educational pursuits, man finds great fulfillment in life by spending time for arts, which can satisfy his emotional needs. 

In conclusion, spending money for both arts, and educational and health needs are equally important and therefore ignoring either of the sectors is not desirable.