Single Idea 12161

[catalogued under 21. Aesthetics / C. Artistic Issues / 5. Objectivism in Art]

Full Idea

An historian can elucidate convention while having no feeling for the art that exploits it; whereas an understanding of tradition is reserved for those with the critical insight which comes from the love of art, both past and present.

Gist of Idea

We can be objective about conventions, but love of art is needed to understand its traditions

Source

Roger Scruton (Public Text and Common Reader [1982], p.24)

Book Reference

Scruton,Roger: 'The Aesthetic Understanding' [Methuen 1983], p.24


A Reaction

This aesthetic observation is obviously close to Scruton's well-known conservatism in politics. I am doubtful whether the notion of 'tradition' can stand up to close examination, though we all know roughly what he means.