PHIL 356: Philosophy of Art

Examines philosophical theories that inquire into the nature, role, and value of art and that offer differing accounts of human beings’ response to art. Key issues include what counts as art, representation and expression, museums and institutions, the role of technology, the sublime, and the art/craft distinction. Attention will be paid to the social, cultural and historical conditions of both the production of art and of theories about art and its role in human existence. Individual sections may focus on particular artforms such as the visual or performative arts, film, the digital arts, earth and land art, or music, and/or include cross-cultural comparative analysis. Offered by Philosophy. Limited to three attempts.