The Value of Aesthetic Education

Aesthetic education is essential because it underscores the intrinsic value of the arts, arguing against the perception that the arts are solely for self-expression or instrumental benefits. Laura D'Olimpio emphasizes the need for a robust defense of arts education, particularly in light of funding cuts that often prioritize academic subjects. She outlines a fundamental belief that arts should be appreciated for their own sake, for the rich aesthetic experiences they offer, rather than merely for their economic or moral advantages. This perspective challenges the frequent dismissal of the humanities as irrelevant, calling for an understanding of how aesthetic education contributes to personal and societal flourishing.