The Importance of Art in Moral Philosophy

In this podcast episode, Garth Greenwell discusses Martha Nussbaum's essay 'Flawed Crystals, James' The Golden Bowl, and Literature as Moral Philosophy.' Nussbaum's work explores the relationship between art and moral philosophy, challenging simplistic approaches that either reduce art to moral precepts or dismiss its moral value. She argues that art, specifically novels like Henry James' The Golden Bowl, can be a medium for moral education. Nussbaum emphasizes the importance of intuitive perception and improvisatory response in moral reasoning, as opposed to rigid systems or rules. She suggests that engaging with literature allows us to grapple with the complexities of moral questions and experience a broad range of moral emotions. Nussbaum's approach invites a collaborative and responsive engagement with art, urging readers to embrace ambiguity and be open to being morally bewitchered.