THL1501
ASSIGNMENT 2 SEMESTER 2 2024
, Question 1: Arguing the Possibility of Objective Definitions for "Beauty" and
"Aesthetics"
In her book Basic Issues in Aesthetics (1998), Marcia Eaton delves into the challenging
task of defining "beauty" and "aesthetics." She points out how subjective these concepts
often seem because they can vary from person to person. For instance, one person
might find a particular painting beautiful, while another might not see it the same way.
This difference in perception leads to the idea that beauty and aesthetics are purely
subjective.
However, I would argue that it is possible to define these terms more objectively. Take
the concept of "symmetry," for example. Many people find symmetrical faces or objects
beautiful, which suggests that there are some universal principles at play when it comes
to beauty. This doesn't mean that everyone will agree on what is beautiful, but it does
suggest that there are certain qualities that tend to be widely recognized as beautiful.
These qualities can be used to define beauty in a more objective way.
Similarly, aesthetics, which refers to the principles of beauty and artistic taste, can also
be defined objectively by focusing on these universal principles. For example, in many
cultures, harmony and balance are key elements of what is considered aesthetically
pleasing. These principles can be used to create a definition of aesthetics that is not
solely based on individual preferences but rather on widely recognized qualities.
In conclusion, while personal preferences will always play a role in our understanding of
beauty and aesthetics, it is possible to define these terms objectively by focusing on
universal principles that are widely recognized across different cultures and contexts. By
doing so, we can create definitions that are not just subjective but have a broader
application.
References:
ASSIGNMENT 2 SEMESTER 2 2024
, Question 1: Arguing the Possibility of Objective Definitions for "Beauty" and
"Aesthetics"
In her book Basic Issues in Aesthetics (1998), Marcia Eaton delves into the challenging
task of defining "beauty" and "aesthetics." She points out how subjective these concepts
often seem because they can vary from person to person. For instance, one person
might find a particular painting beautiful, while another might not see it the same way.
This difference in perception leads to the idea that beauty and aesthetics are purely
subjective.
However, I would argue that it is possible to define these terms more objectively. Take
the concept of "symmetry," for example. Many people find symmetrical faces or objects
beautiful, which suggests that there are some universal principles at play when it comes
to beauty. This doesn't mean that everyone will agree on what is beautiful, but it does
suggest that there are certain qualities that tend to be widely recognized as beautiful.
These qualities can be used to define beauty in a more objective way.
Similarly, aesthetics, which refers to the principles of beauty and artistic taste, can also
be defined objectively by focusing on these universal principles. For example, in many
cultures, harmony and balance are key elements of what is considered aesthetically
pleasing. These principles can be used to create a definition of aesthetics that is not
solely based on individual preferences but rather on widely recognized qualities.
In conclusion, while personal preferences will always play a role in our understanding of
beauty and aesthetics, it is possible to define these terms objectively by focusing on
universal principles that are widely recognized across different cultures and contexts. By
doing so, we can create definitions that are not just subjective but have a broader
application.
References:
