Nov. 8

Domenica Romagni (Colorado State University)

Spinoza’s Aesthetics

Abstract: Historically, Spinoza has often been interpreted as having no aesthetic theory whatsoever or, even more dramatically, as being hostile to the entire project of aesthetics. More recently, however, commentators have argued that Spinoza's general framework can accommodate an aesthetic theory and, moreover, that he explicitly acknowledges a place for aesthetic appreciation, both in relation to the health and well-being of individuals and their communities. In this presentation, I will discuss the evolution of these views, and then go on to provide my own account of Spinoza's aesthetics that takes his central aesthetic concept to be perfection rather than beauty or sensory satisfaction.

Domenica Romagni is an Assistant Professor in the Philosophy Department at Colorado State University. Before joining the department, she earned her PhD at Princeton University under the supervision of Daniel Garber. She specializes in early modern philosophy, philosophy of music and aesthetics, and the history and philosophy of science, with interests in the philosophy of mind. Her research focuses on philosophy of mind and perception in the 17th century, explanatory virtues, scientific theory-building in the early modern period, and musical perception.

Click here to learn more about her work.

Please navigate to “Downloads” in the top right corner for a draft of the pre-circulated paper.

A recording of the session will be made available following the event.

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