Aesthetics Today - (Elements of Philosophy) Abridged by Robert Stecker & Ted Gracyk (Paperback)

About the Book

Provides a wide-ranging introduction to aesthetic theory and philosophy of art for readers, particularly university students who seek an overview of major controversies, theories, and writers. The 44 readings are chosen for their capacity to provide a representative set of competing perspectives within the contemporary debate and are edited to be accessible to undergraduates. With 40 readings by contemporary authors and 4 classic texts that provide a solid foundation, Aesthetics: A Reader is both accessible and current.

Book Synopsis

Aesthetics: A Reader provides centrally important texts that explore the current state of the debate on twelve major topics within aesthetics and the philosophy of art. With the exception of excerpts from classic texts by Hume, Kant, Hanslick, and Collingwood, all the readings are by contemporary authors. Most of these essays have been abridged by the editors to enhance their accessibility and to maximize our ability to present a variety of positions on a given topic. Aesthetics provides a wide-ranging introduction to aesthetic theory and philosophy of art for readers, particularly university students who seek an overview of major controversies, theories, and writers. Each chapter features three to four contrasting views of each topic introduced by an original introductory essay that outlines the chapter's central issues, concepts, and controversies.

Review Quotes

"This is an outstanding blend of essays that address topical and foundational issues in both philosophical aesthetics and the philosophy of art. The selections, judiciously chosen and supplemented with clear and astute introductions, provide a thorough and lively overview of contemporary debates." --Philip Alperson, Temple University

"This outstanding collection brings together the best work in aesthetics and the analytic philosophy of art, with comprehensive coverage of a full spread of topics. The editors judiciously combine "classic" writings with contemporary discussions, choosing material that is both central and accessible. This reader provides an invaluable resource for students." --Stephen Davies, The University of Auckland

About the Author

Robert Stecker is professor of philosophy at Central Michigan University. Ted Gracyk is professor of philosophy at Minnesota State University Moorehead.