IELTS Writing Task 2: Should Governments Fund the Arts? (Band 9 Sample)

Whenever budgets are tight, spending on museums, orchestras and theatres is among the first things to be questioned. While I understand the argument that essential services must come first, I largely agree that governments should continue to fund the arts, because their cultural and economic value is easy to underestimate.

1. Why the arts deserve public support

The arts enrich society in ways the market alone will not provide. Without public subsidy, many theatres, galleries and music programmes would simply disappear, since they rarely turn a profit, and access would become a privilege of the wealthy. State funding keeps culture affordable for everyone and preserves a nation's heritage for future generations. It also makes sound economic sense, as a thriving cultural scene draws tourists and supports thousands of jobs.

2. Weighing the opposing view

That said, the counter-argument has real force. When hospitals are underfunded and people are struggling, it can seem indefensible to subsidise an opera few will attend. The sensible response, however, is not to abandon the arts but to fund them proportionately, ensuring that support for culture never comes at the expense of health or education.

In conclusion, although essential services must always take priority, I believe the arts are far too valuable, both culturally and economically, to be left entirely to the market, and modest public funding for them is money well spent.