In On Beauty and Being Just, Elaine Scarry explores how beauty inspires a desire for justice. She argues that experiencing beauty motivates individuals to protect and preserve it, fostering fairness and equality. Scarry contends that recognizing beauty in art, nature, and people can enhance ethical actions, bridging aesthetics and morality to contribute positively to the world.

Contemplative

Inspirational

Informative

Reviews & Readership

4.0

1,775 ratings

59%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Review Roundup

Elaine Scarry's On Beauty and Being Just presents an intriguing philosophical argument linking beauty to justice. Many reviews praise its thought-provoking nature and eloquence, though some critics find its reasoning overly abstract and lacking empirical support. Overall, the book is celebrated for its insightful exploration of beauty's ethical significance.

Who Should Read On Beauty and Being Just?

A reader who appreciates On Beauty and Being Just by Elaine Scarry is likely interested in aesthetics and philosophy, enjoys works like The Poetics of Space by Gaston Bachelard, and values profound discussions on how beauty influences justice and ethics. Ideal for those who ponder the intersection of art, literature, and morality.

4.0

1,775 ratings

59%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

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Book Details

Pages

144

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Genre

•

•

Theme

Topic

•

Religion & Spirituality

•

Arts & Culture

Publication Year

2001

Audience

Adult