By Wes Richardson
Beauty, an elusive and multifaceted concept, has been the subject of philosophical inquiry for centuries. To appreciate beauty is to engage with a fundamental aspect of human experience, encompassing art, nature, and even human relationships. In this essay, I will explore the significance of beauty, the role of aesthetics philosophy, and the implications of being an aesthete—a term that encapsulates a profound appreciation for the beauty found in the world around us.
At its core, the appreciation of beauty is an intrinsic part of what it means to be human. It transcends mere visual appeal, extending to the emotional and intellectual responses elicited by various forms of beauty. As philosopher Edmund Burke asserts in A Philosophical Enquiry into the Origin of Our Ideas of the Sublime and Beautiful, beauty inspires feelings of pleasure and harmony, connecting us to the deeper currents of existence (Burke 15). In contrast, the sublime evokes a sense of awe and wonder, often confronting us with the limits of our understanding. Together, these experiences highlight the duality of beauty, showcasing its capacity to inspire both tranquility and contemplation.
The field of aesthetics—rooted in the Greek word aisthesis, meaning “sensation”—examines the nature of beauty, art, and taste. Aesthetics seeks to understand how we perceive and evaluate beauty, engaging with questions such as: What constitutes beauty? Is beauty universal or subjective? Throughout history, philosophers have grappled with these questions, leading to various interpretations and theories. For instance, Plato posited that beauty exists in an ideal form, a concept he explored in his dialogues, where he suggests that earthly beauty is a reflection of a higher, divine beauty (Plato 102). In contrast, the Romantic philosophers, such as Friedrich Schiller, emphasized the individual’s subjective experience of beauty, arguing that personal emotions and perceptions shape our appreciation (Schiller 23).
In the modern era, aesthetic philosophy has evolved to embrace a broader spectrum of inquiry, including the intersection of beauty with culture, identity, and politics. This evolution underscores the notion that beauty is not merely an isolated experience but rather a lens through which we understand the complexities of human existence. As philosopher Arthur Danto articulates in The Abuse of Beauty: Aesthetics and the Creative Arts, the appreciation of beauty is deeply intertwined with social and cultural contexts, shaping our values and beliefs (Danto 42). This perspective invites a critical examination of how beauty is constructed and represented in various mediums, challenging us to consider whose voices are celebrated and whose narratives are marginalized.
Being an aesthete involves an active engagement with the world, marked by an acute sensitivity to beauty in its myriad forms. Aesthetes are often characterized by their deep appreciation for art, nature, and the subtleties of life that might go unnoticed by others. This heightened awareness allows them to cultivate a richer, more fulfilling experience of existence. As noted by philosopher Alain de Botton in The Art of Travel, “To be an aesthete is to understand that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places, and that our capacity to appreciate it is a vital part of our emotional well-being” (de Botton 65). This understanding aligns with my personal ethos as an aesthete, where beauty serves not only as a source of pleasure but also as a means of connection to the world and to oneself.
The appreciation of beauty extends beyond individual experiences; it plays a crucial role in fostering empathy and understanding within society. By engaging with beauty, we are invited to reflect on our shared humanity and the diverse expressions of life. The philosopher Emmanuel Levinas emphasizes this relational aspect of beauty, suggesting that true beauty arises from our encounters with others and our ability to see the world through their eyes (Levinas 87). This perspective encourages a deeper appreciation for the beauty inherent in diversity, challenging us to celebrate differences rather than succumb to uniformity.
Appreciating beauty is a complex and profound endeavor that encompasses both individual experiences and collective values. The philosophy of aesthetics provides a framework for understanding the nature of beauty and its significance in our lives, while the identity of an aesthete reflects a commitment to cultivating sensitivity to the beauty that permeates our existence. As we navigate a world often characterized by chaos and uncertainty, the pursuit of beauty offers a pathway to deeper connection, understanding, and ultimately, fulfillment.
Works Cited
Schiller, Friedrich. On the Aesthetic Education of Man. 1795. Oxford University Press, 2004.
Burke, Edmund. A Philosophical Enquiry into the Origin of Our Ideas of the Sublime and Beautiful. 1757. Prometheus Books, 2008.
Danto, Arthur. The Abuse of Beauty: Aesthetics and the Creative Arts. Open Court, 2003.
de Botton, Alain. The Art of Travel. Hamish Hamilton, 2002.
Levinas, Emmanuel. Totality and Infinity: An Essay on Exteriority. Duquesne University Press, 1969.
Plato. The Republic. Translated by Benjamin Jowett, 1888. Dover Publications, 2000.