Final answer:
While mandating the study of art and music in secondary school can foster critical thinking, emotional expression, and cultural understanding, its success is contingent on teacher support and curriculum integration. Arts education has been shown to improve grades and develop appreciation for diverse forms of expression, contributing to a student's cultural capital.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question of whether all students should be required to study art and music in secondary school is a significant one, touching on the role of arts education in broader learning. Proponents argue that engagement with the arts encourages critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and a better understanding of human cultures and the human condition.
This is backed by research suggesting that arts integration in education can lead to improved grades and broaden students' perspectives, enriching their cultural capital and enhancing their skills at self-examination.
Furthermore, involvement in art and music can help communicate complex ideas and emotions, foster appreciation for different forms of expression, and illustrate the evolution of culture. The study of the arts also demands the examination of the responsibilities of artists towards their audience, as well as the responsibilities of audiences towards artists.
Lastly, exposure to art and music from various cultures can teach valuable lessons about life and our place in the world, challenging us to consider our own perceptions and the boundaries of artistic expression.
However, the effectiveness of such a requirement in schools depends on the support and involvement of classroom teachers, and the authentic integration of art-making activities into the curriculum. Ultimately, whether modern education should mandate arts study involves balancing curriculum breadth with the recognition of the transformative impact that artistic literacy can have on individuals and society.