Question
Government money should support more important things rather than artists.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Sample answer
Due to budget shortfall in many countries, the funding for arts is facing a declining trend. The main reason is that some people partially emphasize the role of science and technology and social services such as medical care and education, but underestimate the intangible contribution of the arts which is difficult to quantify.
If we were to judge something by its material value, putting the taxpayers money into social service and science surely looks justifiable as it plays a more direct role in increasing people's living standard than the arts. For example, education empowers people with knowledge and skills that make capable workers. Improving healthcare system leads to better public health and better quality of life. Environmental technologies such as clean energies help make the earth a better place to live. However, these do not necessarily enhance the happiness of people. That is to say the quality of life does not solely depend on material satisfaction.
Humans are emotional beings and need not only bread to eat but also roses to enjoy. Arts existed as early as in prehistory era, which is the best evidence of arts significance even under a preliminary living condition. Humans instinctively express their thoughts and emotions through painting, music or literature, which is always about creativity and uniqueness. Therefore without thriving arts, the other fields such as science, economy and education would lose inspiration and passion. Looking back at the human history, there was no highly advanced civilisation without the company of prosperous arts and culture. Another reason for government to support arts is that arts can enhance national cohesion due to its unique regional and racial characteristics. Citizen engagement in arts activities creates a strong shared identity and instills pride in a state's cultural heritage.
To conclude, it is the arts that deal with non-material aspects of human life and it is as important as basic social services for humans, but in different ways. To maintain a healthy and robust society, governments should not marginalise the arts.
