Utveckling av forskning kring konstkultur och hälsa från slutet av 70-talet till nu

– mitt eget subjektiva perspektiv

Abstract

Research on the arts (such as visual arts, dancing, music, theater and literature) and their relationship to health has existed during thousands of years. Those who have been doing the studies have been aware of the distinction between passive and active participation in arts. Detailed descriptions of individual courses have always been included in such studies and they have had an important function in motivating societal engagement in the fine arts. A famous example from the bible is David´s harp playing for King Salomo which according to the tale cured the king´s depression. Systematic studies of physiological reactions in the form of changes in heart rate associated with music experiences were reported in the German scientific literature in the 1950:s. But when decisive progress was made in basal neuroendocrinology and immunology during the 1980:s and later it became possible to study hormonal and immune changes related to musical experiences. During the early 2000:s the discovery of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) made it possible to follow changes "online" in different parts of the brain during musical experiences. In addition it has become possible to follow the brain development in the growing child and how that is influenced by artistic experiences. In summary we have more knowledge about societal effects of cultural activities than previously and it is time for society to take this seriously.