A Naturalistic and Behavioral Theory of Aesthetics
A Naturalistic and Behavioral Theory of Aesthetics
Author(s): Fracnis MechnerSubject(s): Philosophy, Fine Arts / Performing Arts, Aesthetics, Behaviorism
Published by: Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Jagiellońskiego
Summary/Abstract: Aesthetic reactions occur when cognitive and affective elements interact, in diverse arts.Affective elements result from past Pavlovian conditioning events and other sources.Compounding raises these effects to the level of aesthetic reactions. Properties of domains in which aesthetic reactions occur are identified. Cognitive ability is selected phylogenetically by the discernment of beauty. Aesthetic reactions help maintain competencies like language, conceptualization, and abstract thinking.
Journal: Estetyka i Krytyka
- Issue Year: 52/2019
- Issue No: 1
- Page Range: 73-93
- Page Count: 10
- Language: English