Comment Re:Self-selection (Score 1) 58
It's interesting that although the article avoids stating causation, it does use the word "help," which is also an extremely strong statement when the data only shows correlation. Social-economic level, especially relating to income and assets should be the very first obvious factor analyzed.
Especially when people look at everything from socioeconomic level.
There's a reason that rich people support and participate in the arts more than poor people. Rich people have the spare time, spare money, and often less stress (economic, health, etc.).
Definitely will have more spare money.
But do you believe that the wealthy are indolent or something? Many of my peers are in the millionaire class, and they work hard and long. And more than a few are highly stressed.
For example, some high schools require a lot of money (up to $5000 for one school in our area) per season to participating in marching band, and that doesn't even include buying the expensive instrument.
It is fortunate that there are many other forms of art, some that require little more than a sketchpad and pencils. I know what you are talking about a little, as my parents would not get me an instrument when I wanted to join the school band. So I got a part time job after school, saved my money, bought a Fender Bass and amp, and was making around 100 dollars a week in 1970. Not too bad for a 10th grader.
Art is creating things, not spending money. You can pick an art form that requires money, but it is not mandatory. You can even just buy a knife and carve found wood.
Poor people have to work more hours for lower pay.
You're talking to a guy who regularly worked 60 hours a week, and more than a few occasions 100 hours.
When they do have spare time, simply destressing is more important than indulgence in the arts.
Oh man! My art is my de-stressing. Wonder what the difference is? How does someone de-stress when they cannot even make sketches, maybe sing, or do anything?
Slashdot has a lot of tech people in here. I wonder if they actually understand art?