THL1501
ASSIGNMENT 2 SEMESTER 1 2026
UNIQUE NO. 657810
DUE DATE: 24 APRIL 2026
, Introduction to Theory of Literature - THL1501
Question 1
The concepts of “beauty” and “aesthetics” have long been debated in philosophy,
particularly because they appear to depend on personal taste. Marcia Eaton, in Basic
Issues in Aesthetics (1998), highlights the difficulty of defining these terms due to their
subjective nature. However, despite these challenges, it is still possible to use “beauty”
and “aesthetics” in an objective way. This essay argues that although individual
preferences differ, shared standards, cultural frameworks, and observable qualities
allow for meaningful and objective definitions of these concepts.
One of the main arguments against objectivity in beauty is the common saying that
“beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” This suggests that what is beautiful varies from
person to person. Eaton acknowledges this difficulty, noting that aesthetic judgments
often involve emotional responses and personal interpretation (Study Guide, THL1501).
However, this does not mean that all judgments are entirely subjective or arbitrary. In
fact, people across different cultures and time periods often agree on certain aesthetic
qualities, such as symmetry, harmony, and balance.
For example, in visual art and architecture, symmetry is widely regarded as beautiful.
Classical Greek sculptures, Renaissance paintings, and even modern design often rely
on proportion and balance. These features can be objectively identified and analyzed.
Similarly, in nature, landscapes such as sunsets, mountains, or oceans are commonly
described as beautiful by many people. While personal preferences may vary, there is a
broad consensus that certain features evoke aesthetic appreciation.
Eaton also points out that aesthetic judgments are not made in isolation but are
influenced by cultural and social contexts (Study Guide, THL1501). This means that
while beauty may not be universally fixed, it is still shaped by shared standards within a
community. For instance, what is considered beautiful in fashion or art may differ across
cultures, but within each culture there are recognizable norms and criteria. These norms
provide a basis for objective discussion and evaluation.
ASSIGNMENT 2 SEMESTER 1 2026
UNIQUE NO. 657810
DUE DATE: 24 APRIL 2026
, Introduction to Theory of Literature - THL1501
Question 1
The concepts of “beauty” and “aesthetics” have long been debated in philosophy,
particularly because they appear to depend on personal taste. Marcia Eaton, in Basic
Issues in Aesthetics (1998), highlights the difficulty of defining these terms due to their
subjective nature. However, despite these challenges, it is still possible to use “beauty”
and “aesthetics” in an objective way. This essay argues that although individual
preferences differ, shared standards, cultural frameworks, and observable qualities
allow for meaningful and objective definitions of these concepts.
One of the main arguments against objectivity in beauty is the common saying that
“beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” This suggests that what is beautiful varies from
person to person. Eaton acknowledges this difficulty, noting that aesthetic judgments
often involve emotional responses and personal interpretation (Study Guide, THL1501).
However, this does not mean that all judgments are entirely subjective or arbitrary. In
fact, people across different cultures and time periods often agree on certain aesthetic
qualities, such as symmetry, harmony, and balance.
For example, in visual art and architecture, symmetry is widely regarded as beautiful.
Classical Greek sculptures, Renaissance paintings, and even modern design often rely
on proportion and balance. These features can be objectively identified and analyzed.
Similarly, in nature, landscapes such as sunsets, mountains, or oceans are commonly
described as beautiful by many people. While personal preferences may vary, there is a
broad consensus that certain features evoke aesthetic appreciation.
Eaton also points out that aesthetic judgments are not made in isolation but are
influenced by cultural and social contexts (Study Guide, THL1501). This means that
while beauty may not be universally fixed, it is still shaped by shared standards within a
community. For instance, what is considered beautiful in fashion or art may differ across
cultures, but within each culture there are recognizable norms and criteria. These norms
provide a basis for objective discussion and evaluation.
