Valuing the Historic Environment: a critical review of existing approaches to social value

Abstract

Through a critical review of existing research, this report examines current knowledge and understanding of social value. Encompassing the significance of the historic environment to contemporary communities, social value relates to people’s sense of identity, distinctiveness, belonging, and place, as well as forms of memory and spiritual association. Particular attention is focused on the modes of experience, engagement and practice that inform people’s relationships with the historic environment. The report also considers how to deal with the dynamic, iterative, and embodied nature of these relationships. The range of methodologies used in existing research and surveys is critically discussed, along with their application in the spheres of heritage conservation and public policy. Finally, the appropriateness of conceptual frameworks that quantify and fix values is examined. The possibilities for capturing more fluid processes of valuing the historic environment are considered, along with the implications for other spheres of arts and culture.