SOCSC200 Philosophy of Art & Beauty

This course is designed to introduce undergraduates to the various philosophical questions raised by works of art. It will draw upon a variety of methods in order to acquaint students with the key concepts, theories, and thinkers used in the discussion of aesthetic experience. We will develop the various languages used in the critique and analysis of aesthetic experience to, on the one hand, deepen our appreciation of production, and, on the other, to sharpen our powers of judgment. Throughout this course, we will trace the development of the field of enquiry known as aesthetics in modern philosophy in order enhance our perspective on contemporary debates, works, and practices. Some of the questions that we will explore include: What is art? What is the relationship between art and truth? Is art a philosophical enterprise? Is philosophy an artistic pursuit? And, to what extent is art, and aesthetics, political?