Aesthetics B

About the course

This 30 credits course consists of three parts: two sub-courses and an essay.

In the first sub-course, Philosophical Aesthetics: Three Central Problems (15 credits), we study three central problems within philosophical aesthetics. We start by looking at a specific aesthetic concept (for instance, aesthetic value, aesthetic experience or aesthetic judgment) and investigate various theories and definitions of how the concept should be understood. Secondly, we turn to an issue about art in general or a specific art form to gain insight into how art may affect us and why we think that art is valuable (for instance: "Can music express emotions?" or "How does a painting differ from a photograph?"). We end by looking at an issue that concerns the broadening of aesthetics into domains outside of art (for instance: "How do we experience nature aesthetically?" or "Can functional or everyday objects be beautiful?"). The specific issues treated may vary from semester to semester.

After the first sub-course, you choose one of two elective sub-courses (7.5 credits). Examples of previous courses are Ontology of Art and Classics of Aesthetics. See upcoming elective courses.

While the two courses above will give you a deepened understanding of issues, theories and arguments within philosophical aesthetics, the aim of the essay (7.5 credits) is to provide you with training in the writing of academic essays and to let you develop and formulate your own thoughts about an aesthetic issue.

Note: Exchange students whose home universities do not accept essays at this level may replace the essay course with an elective course. If this is your situation, contact the Director of studies, Bachelor's level, for courses available.