Swiftonomics – The Taylor Swift Effect

Swiftonomics – The Taylor Swift Effect

Objective: 

The worksheet aims to highlight the far-reaching economic, social and environmental impacts of a global concert tour, using Taylor Swift's ‘Eras Tour’ as an example.

Contents and methods: 

Using multiple-choice questions, videos and factual texts, learners analyse ‘Swiftonomics’ and its influence on various economic sectors and a selected city. The tasks include knowledge tests, problem solving and opinion forming by developing their own proposals for sustainable events and justifying a decision as mayor.

Skills:

  • Analysis and evaluation of economic relationships
  • Critical thinking and argumentation
  • Media literacy
  • Reflection on social and environmental issues

Target group and level:

From Year 8 onwards

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Target group and level

Year 8 and above

Subjects

EconomicsPolitics

Swiftonomics – The Taylor Swift Effect

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Introduction

Taylor Swift's ‘Eras Tour’ is more than just a series of concerts: it is a global economic phenomenon. With billions in revenue, it influences cities, businesses and even universities. We want to understand the impact the tour is having – economically, socially and ecologically. Even personal events such as her recent engagement announcement show how much Taylor Swift moves the world: from fashion and media hype to tourist trends.

📝Which answers do you think are correct? Select the correct answer from the options provided.

💭What surprised you the most, and why? Share your thoughts with the rest of the class.

🎬 Now watch the video and answer the following task.

📌Read the following excerpt about the impact of a particular concert.

The Complex Impacts of Taylor Swift's Concert in New Orleans

The recent Taylor Swift concert in New Orleans has left an indelible mark on the city, not only in terms of entertainment but also through significant economic, environmental, and political consequences. The economic impact has been substantial, with estimates suggesting that Swift's Eras Tour brought in nearly $200 million from ticket sales alone, not including additional revenue from merchandise, hotel accommodations, and other tourism-related expenses. This influx is comparable to the financial boost the city receives from Mardi Gras, which spans over two weeks. The term "Swiftonomics" has been coined to describe this phenomenon, illustrating the concert's profound economic significance.

However, this economic boon does not come without environmental costs. The extensive tour, covering various continents, has contributed to substantial carbon dioxide emissions. The environmental footprint includes emissions from private jet travel and increased waste generation due to merchandise packaging and single-use plastics. Although efforts have been made to offset these emissions through carbon credits, the sustainability of such measures remains debated among experts.

Politically, the concert's timing has stirred controversy regarding homelessness policies in New Orleans. A temporary restraining order was issued to prevent the displacement of unhoused individuals residing near the Superdome, where the concert took place. The legal action arose from concerns that state officials were prioritizing the city's image over the welfare of its most vulnerable residents. This decision highlights the complex interplay between urban development, public safety, and social justice, especially in light of upcoming events like the Super Bowl, which will further test the city's infrastructural and social policies.

Taylor Swift's influence extends beyond the stage, impacting local economies and prompting discussions on sustainability and social justice. Her team has reportedly worked to reduce plastic usage at venues and donate to local food banks, addressing economic disparities faced by communities. These actions demonstrate the potential for artists to leverage their platforms for positive change, though they also underscore the need for broader industry-wide sustainability practices.

Overall, Taylor Swift's concert in New Orleans serves as a microcosm of the broader implications of large-scale entertainment events. It exemplifies the delicate balance between economic benefits, environmental sustainability, and social equity, prompting ongoing dialogue on how cities can manage such multifaceted impacts. As New Orleans prepares for future major events, the lessons learned from the Eras Tour will likely influence policies and strategies aimed at fostering sustainable and equitable growth.

Sources:

📝 Match the political, environmental and economic impacts of the concert in the table.

📌The future of Swiftonomics remains uncertain – but one thing is clear: Taylor Swift has long since achieved her own economic “state of grace”.