The study also adds to the evidence that factory closings, mass layoffs and other
economic shocks have widespread negative
effects on communities, reaching beyond the individuals who lose work.
In a research paper titled «Culture
Shocks and Consequences: The causal link between the arts and
economic growth,» co-authors Peter Pedroni and Stephen Sheppard, economics professors at Williams College in the nearby Williamstown, conclude that arts institutions benefit surrounding communities with both the short - term multiplier
effect of day visitors spending money and long - term improvements to local income levels.