Knowledge and art

David Novitz

pp. 985-1012

in: Ilkka Niiniluoto, Matti Sintonen, Jan Woleński (eds), Handbook of epistemology, Berlin, Springer, 2004

Abstract

Raised eyebrows are one common response to the claim that art is a valuable source of knowledge and understanding about the world. Some philosophers prefer to see the idea as a fond and self-deluded notion; rather like believing that one's lap-dog is wise and knowledgeable, and that his cuddly warmth, sympathetic licks and doggy breath indicate a fund of wisdom and compassionate understanding.