Single Idea 7083

[catalogued under 2. Reason / A. Nature of Reason / 1. On Reason]

Full Idea

I am now convinced that the highest act of reason, which embraces all ideas, is an aesthetic act, and that truth and goodness are brothers only in beauty.

Gist of Idea

Highest reason is aesthetic, and truth and good are subordinate to beauty

Source

Georg W.F.Hegel (Oldest System Prog. of German Idealism [1796]), quoted by Simon Critchley - Continental Philosophy - V. Short Intro Append

Book Reference

Critchley,Simon: 'Continental Philosophy - Very Short Intro' [OUP 2001], p.130


A Reaction

This seems to be the distinctive value framework of the romantic movement and the nineteenth century, where art is destined to replace religion. However, Plato in the Symposium is an interesting ally. Aim for beauty, and the rest follows?