In this course, we will examine a broad set of philosophical questions about art. What is art? Why does it matter? Are there objective standards of taste, or is beauty in the eye of the beholder? What is the relationship between aesthetics and ethics? In addition to these general questions, we will consider specific philosophical puzzles posed by other issues in the arts, which may include forgery, authenticity, restoration, testimony, and the paradox of horror. Cases will range from public sculpture to popular music to film and television.

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 25

Prerequisites: Open to First-Years who have taken one course in philosophy and to Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors without prerequisite.

Instructor: E. Matthes

Distribution Requirements: EC - Epistemology and Cognition; ARS - Visual Arts, Music, Theater, Film and Video

Typical Periods Offered: Spring

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Not Offered

Notes:

The focus of this course will be the art of comedy and humor. We will approach them from a variety of angles: philosophical attempts to define humor, scientific investigations of the origin and meaning of laughter, moral examinations of the limits of comedy and its political power, and the theological question of the place of humor in a meaningful life. 

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 15

Prerequisites:

Instructor: Deen

Distribution Requirements: EC - Epistemology and Cognition; ARS - Visual Arts, Music, Theater, Film and Video

Typical Periods Offered: Summer

Notes: