Consider for a minute the amount of time, effort and money we put into the creation, acquisition and enjoyment of art. From art shows to advertisements, from the great works of literature to television sit-coms, art has a hold on us. Yet while it has this pull on our imagination, our emotions and our wallets, when asked what art is or when challenged to explain this power it has over us, we are left speechless.
This course provides an opportunity to address these issues as we explore the relationship between art and emotion, reflect on the nature of beauty, consider the power of the imagination, and attempt to solve the mystery of art theft and debate whether artworks should be censored. Through an introduction to the key issues in the philosophy of art, students will be challenged to consider just why art matters.