With the sustained, coherent perspective of an authored text and the diverse, authoritative views typical of an anthology, Philosophy of Art: Aesthetic Theory and Practice by David Boersema provides the context and commentary students need to comprehend the various issues in philosophy of art. Throughout the book, issues are examined using the lenses of the three broad areas of philosophy: metaphysics, epistemology, and value theory. That is, concerns are raised about what is expressed, how it is expressed, and why it is expressed. Chapters on the artist, the audience, and the artwork further break down the discipline and are applied to the final chapters on the specific types of art. The differences between art and science as well as the relationship of art and society provide a refreshing discussion of overlooked areas in philosophy of art.

About the Author
David Boersema is the Douglas C. Strain Professor of Natural Philosophy and Distinguished University Professor at Pacific University in Oregon. He is the author of Philosophy of Human Rights: Theory and Practice (Westview Press), Pragmatism and Reference,and Philosophy of Science, and coeditor of Spiritual and Political Dimensions on Nonviolence and Peace.

Reviews
"Philosophy of Art is an accessible and well-organized text. The integration of primary source materials into the writing allows students to engage with challenging thinking without sacrificing the clarifying narrative. I find the hybrid format very appealing." -Kelly A. Parker, Grand Valley State University "Combining the virtues of an anthology and a monograph, Boersema's book skillfully weaves together a collection of important essays in contemporary philosophy of art with astute and thought-provoking commentary. Boersema offers a comprehensive examination of a broad range of issues that is truly accessible to non-specialists. Philosophy of Art: Aesthetic Theory and Practice will be an invaluable tool for readers new to the philosophy of art." -Christopher Bartel, Appalachian State University "Boersema provides teachers of aesthetics with a thoughtful blend of [primary readings and secondary texts]. The readings for each chapter are well chosen and the author writes in very readable prose. Everything fits together nicely, and the student receives a careful walk-through of each essay before it appears. Highly Recommended." -Choice



Book Information
ISBN 9780813347196
Author David Boersema
Format Paperback
Page Count 376
Imprint Westview Press Inc
Publisher Taylor & Francis Inc
Weight(grams) 448g
Dimensions(mm) 153mm * 228mm * 20mm