The Oxford Handbook of Ethics and Art

This volume explores the question of whether art can be morally good or bad, looking at historical and theoretical perspectives and a range of art forms. It highlights the variety of problems and approaches, and suggests surprising connections and conflicts. The volume is divided into four sections: Historical Perspectives, Theoretical Approaches, Individual Arts, and Problems.

Format: Unspecified
Length: 768 pages
Publication date: 07 November 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

This comprehensive volume delves into the intricate exploration of whether and how art can be morally good or bad. It examines a wide range of historical and theoretical perspectives, encompassing diverse art forms and addressing various ethical dilemmas. The authors present forty-five new essays that delve into the complexities of this subject matter.

The volume begins by examining historical perspectives, shedding light on significant cultural periods where philosophical debates about ethics and art took center stage. From ancient Greece and China to Japan, the Harlem Renaissance, and beyond, these chapters showcase the diverse practices associated with art and the diverse approaches to understanding ethical concerns.

The next section, theoretical approaches, delves into the relationship between art and morality. The authors explore questions such as whether art can be morally neutral, whether it has the power to influence moral behavior, and how it can be used to promote or challenge ethical values. They also examine the ethical implications of different artistic forms, such as painting, sculpture, literature, and film.

Individual arts are explored in the third section, with essays examining the ethical dimensions of specific art forms. The authors discuss the ethical considerations involved in creating and appreciating art, such as the use of symbolism, representation, and narrative. They also explore the ethical challenges posed by art that challenges traditional notions of beauty, identity, and morality.

The final section, problems, addresses the ethical dilemmas and challenges that arise in the context of art. The authors explore topics such as censorship, plagiarism, cultural appropriation, and the commercialization of art. They also examine the ethical responsibilities of artists, art institutions, and audiences in promoting and consuming art that is ethically responsible.

Throughout the volume, the authors make a deliberate effort to stretch beyond some of the debates and problems that are most familiar to Anglophone philosophers. They place familiar topics and positions side by side with new and neglected ones, often suggesting surprising connections and conflicts. The volume is organized into four sections: historical perspectives, theoretical approaches, individual arts, and problems.

In conclusion, this comprehensive volume offers a valuable exploration of the ethical dimensions of art. It provides a rich tapestry of historical and theoretical perspectives, encompassing diverse art forms and addressing a wide range of ethical dilemmas. By challenging traditional assumptions and promoting a deeper understanding of the relationship between art and morality, this volume contributes to the ongoing dialogue about the role of art in shaping our ethical consciousness.

Weight: 1438g
Dimension: 255 x 175 x 50 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197539798