A note on the aesthetics of mirror reversal
Document Type
Journal article
Source Publication
Philosophical Studies: An International Journal for Philosophy in the Analytic Tradition
Publication Date
2-1-2007
Volume
132
Issue
3
First Page
553
Last Page
563
Publisher
Springer Netherlands
Keywords
aesthetic properties, enantiomorphism, incongruent counterparts, mirror reversal
Abstract
According to Roy Sorensen [Philosophical Studies 100 (2000) 175–191] an object cannot differ aesthetically from its mirror image. On his view, mirror-reversing an object–changing its left/right orientation–cannot bring about any aesthetic change. However, in arguing for this thesis Sorensen assumes that aesthetic properties supervene on intrinsic properties alone. This is a highly controversial assumption and nothing is offered in its support. Moreover, a plausible weakening of the assumption does not improve the argument. Finally, Sorensen's second argument is shown to be formally flawed. As a result, the case for the aesthetic irrelevancy of orientation seems still open.
DOI
10.1007/s11098-005-4543-z
Print ISSN
00318116
E-ISSN
15730883
Publisher Statement
Copyright © Springer 2006
Access to external full text or publisher's version may require subscription.
Full-text Version
Publisher’s Version
Language
English
Recommended Citation
De Clercq, R. (2007). A note on the aesthetics of mirror reversal. Philosophical Studies, 132(3), 553-563. doi: 10.1007/s11098-005-4543-z