Philosophy 255/355: Philosophy of Art and Aesthetics
Course Taught By
Dr. Stephanie Patridge
Course Description
This course focuses on questions that are central to the contemporary discussions of the philosophy of art and aesthetics. Some of the questions that we will consider are: Are aesthetic judgments objective or subjective? Is an authentic work of art of greater artistic value than a forgery of this work? Is photography an art form? Is there something irrational or strange about being moved by fictional characters? What is 'horror' and why do we seek out such experiences? Are artworks artistically flawed, if they are morally flawed? Why should we fund public art?Texts Used
In recent versions of this course, the following texts were used:Alex Neil and Aaron Ridley, Arguing About Art, Routledge University Press, 2nd ed.
Susan Sontag, Regarding the Pain of Others, Picador Press
Different texts may be used in the future; check with the bookstore to find out what books are required for the course when you plan on taking it.
