Cambridge University Press The Founding of Aesthetics in the German Enlightenment: The Art of Invention and the Invention of Art

Product Description When, in 1735, Alexander Gottlieb Baumgarten added a new discipline to the philosophical system, he not only founded modern aesthetics but also contributed to shaping the modern concept of art or 'fine art'. In The Founding of Aesthetics in the German Enlightenment, Stefanie Buchenau offers a rich analysis and reconstruction of the origins of this new discipline in its wider context of German Enlightenment philosophy. Present-day scholars commonly regard Baumgarten's views as an imperfect prefiguration of Kantian and post-Kantian aesthetics, but Buchenau argues that Baumgarten defended a consistent and original project which must be viewed in the context of the modern debate on the art of invention. Her book offers new perspectives on Kantian aesthetics and beauty in art and science. Review 'Readers will learn much about Wolff and his school from Buchenau's engaging narrative and impeccable scholarship.' Journal of the History of Philosophy Book Description Stefanie Buchenau explores the philosophical and conceptual origins of aesthetics and the philosophy of art. About the Author Stefanie Buchenau is a Maître de conférences in the German department of the Université Paris VIII.