BBC arts chief hits back at accusations from Dimbleby and Bragg
Suzy Klein defends BBC’s ‘incredibly strong and passionate’ commitment to culture programming
For years I have been outspoken about the importance of the arts in education and in human and community formation. I've even presented a paper reflecting theologically on the humanities as an essential and equal tier in primary, secondary and university education.
So this discussion, argument, disagreement (I can't quite work out which) between two broadcasting stalwarts and Suzy Klein, the BBC's head or Arts and Music makes for interesting reading.
Journalese rhetoric (that's the specific discourse used by journalists to add heat and spice to a headline) doesn't help. I've read this article twice and wouldn't describe Suzy Klein's response as "hits back!" This is a measured, courteous response putting the case from the BBC with evidence and facts. Decades ago, a friend who spent his career servicing University committees mocked the local rag for using the language of physical conflict to describe an exchange of views - words like 'hit back, 'slam', 'floored'.
In the article itself Suzy Klein makes several telling points, and studiously avoids 'slamming' anyone. Speaking of the culture wars she asks they key question: "How did we get to a place where we often feel like different communities or sections of society are so angry with one another?" Or again, "We have to lean into the joy and passion of arts and culture, and not constantly feel like it’s a place where we have to beat ourselves up.”
If you're interested in the arts and humanities, and in securing their place in our cultural and community life, this article is worth reading.
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