Advanced Topics in Aesthetics

Code

PHIL3006

School

Philosophy

Level

3

Credits

20

Semesters

Autumn UK

Summary

This module is a discussion of some philosophical problems pertaining to art. Topics could include: definitions of art, the objectivity versus the subjectivity of aesthetic evaluations, emotional response to art, the ontological status of artworks, and Walton’s theory of make-believe. This module aims to promote a deeper understanding of philosophical issues pertaining to art. By the end of the module, you should be able to discuss and evaluate different views of the expressive power of art, to explain certain current views on the status of aesthetic evaluations, and to present the main contemporary viewpoints pertaining to the nature of artworks.

Target Students

Third year single honours and joint honours Philosophy students. Also available to Liberal Arts students in their final year who have completed either PHIL1012 or PHIL1013. Also available to exchange students.

Classes

• One 1-hour seminar each week for 11 weeks
• One 2-hour lecture each week for 11 weeks

Assessment

• 50% Coursework 1: One 2500 word essay
• 50% Coursework 2: One 2500 word essay

Assessed by end of autumn semester

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

Key skills:

An ability to write clear prose which, using a minimum of jargon describes and assesses arguments of an abstract kind.
 

An ability to identify central questions on a given topic, and to present these questions briefly and succinctly in written form.

An ability to engage in arguments and debate in a spirit of co-operative inquiry.

Conveners

• Dr Ian Kidd