Philosophical Writings

Author(s): Hemant Shah
Publisher: Academy of Philosophy

Page 82

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THE ROLE OF BEAUTY AS A VALUE IN EVERYDAY LIFE
1. INTRODUCTION
Beauty and quest for the source of Beauty has remained, ever since, Vedas and Ancient Greeks, a major concern for thinkers, artists and poets. Beauty, being a feeling, is exceedingly difficult to explain. Still more, it is almost impossible to discuss all the issues and views at length in a small paper of 12 to 15 pages. My efforts in this paper, like a package-tour journey, is to have a very broad survey, avoiding details in most of the cases and taking note of the significant aspects, and thus to motivate the reader (listener) towards deeper, sounder and clearer understanding about Beauty.
I deal with the theory and philosophy of Beauty, as well as, the concept of Beauty in West and in India, and the Axiological conception of Beauty - Beauty as a Value. The paper towards the end is concerned with Beauty in relation to man's everyday life as he lives today. I hope it will serve the purpose.
Two more clarification : (1) I have treated Beauty inclusive of the Sublime, and have avoided the long discussion and distinctions between the two. (2) Wherever it is possible, I have introduced Indian stand point based on Indian Philosophy, Vedas and Upanishads, so as to make it more beneficial to the readers of the West. I am sure I will be excused for these modifications.