This publication examines the contribution that arts and culture have to make, in ways that more formal education and social policy approaches struggle to achieve. It also explores the relationship between arts, culture, and lifelong learning, especially in overcoming social exclusion. It assumes that earning a living ought not to be calculated simply in terms of utilitarian skills or private profit and that there is more to life than paid labor. It assumes that the full entitlements of citizenship in a democratic society ought to enhance the quality of people's lives and engage with their imagination and creativity, as well as make space for active participation in civil society. In light of these assumptions, the book looks at what is meant by art and culture and how the provision of lifelong learning through the arts is contributing to the creation of a learning society. It identifies some concerns that inform United Kingdom government policies in relation to social exclusion and looks at the recommendations being made to address them. It considers which of these should be supported and where changes are necessary. As inspiration, it includes some illustrations of the many activities and achievements in arts and cultural education that make a positive difference in people's lives. (Contains 93 footnotes) (YLB)