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rupertowen's review
5.0
In this book Charlton covers some essential philosophical notions attached to representation, expression, sensations, feelings and meaning. He attempts conclusions at the end of each essay which clarify what is a complex theme, the theme of aesthetics and what gives us pleasure in art and how artists might provide that. A good addition to this work might be Heideggers ideas behind what a piece of art is and what a 'thing' is, as Charlton probes the active loci of aesthetics from a philosophical viewpoint rather then what might be a more phenomenological or ontological perspective but he references those who have like Kant and R.G. Collingwood.
Full of Cartesian circles, Charlton endeavours with his summaries to include his own reasoning by qualifying in his own reckoning the various discussions posed by philosophers who have covered the topic of aesthetics. This book is a must read for those looking for a trim introduction to the field of aesthetics. Perfect before embarking on the works of Deleuze or Guattari. Some of Charlton's examples may appear a bit naff but I get the impression they are intended as accessible archetypes rather then creative illustrations.
Full of Cartesian circles, Charlton endeavours with his summaries to include his own reasoning by qualifying in his own reckoning the various discussions posed by philosophers who have covered the topic of aesthetics. This book is a must read for those looking for a trim introduction to the field of aesthetics. Perfect before embarking on the works of Deleuze or Guattari. Some of Charlton's examples may appear a bit naff but I get the impression they are intended as accessible archetypes rather then creative illustrations.
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