Resources
Scholarly Resources
Explore our collection of materials to support your study of aesthetics
A Wealth of Knowledge
The Canadian Society for Aesthetics is committed to advancing scholarship in the philosophy of art and beauty. Our resources are designed to support researchers, educators, and students in their exploration of aesthetic theory.
From conference proceedings to reading lists, we provide materials that can enhance your understanding and appreciation of aesthetics.
Conference Proceedings
Access papers and presentations from our annual conferences, covering a wide range of topics in aesthetic philosophy.
Request Access
Reading Materials
Curated reading lists and bibliographies to guide your study of classical and contemporary aesthetics.
Learn More
Partner Organizations
Links to related academic societies and organizations in aesthetics and philosophy of art.
View PartnersRecommended Reading
Essential texts in the field of aesthetics
Classical Texts
- Plato - Symposium, Phaedrus, Republic (Book X)
- Aristotle - Poetics
- Immanuel Kant - Critique of Judgment
- Friedrich Schiller - Letters on the Aesthetic Education of Man
- G.W.F. Hegel - Lectures on Aesthetics
- Arthur Schopenhauer - The World as Will and Representation
Contemporary Works
- Arthur Danto - The Transfiguration of the Commonplace
- Nelson Goodman - Languages of Art
- Jeanette Bicknell - Why Music Moves Us
- Noël Carroll - Philosophy of Art: A Contemporary Introduction
- Cynthia Freeland - But Is It Art?
- Kendall Walton - Mimesis as Make-Believe
Research Topics
Areas of active scholarship in contemporary aesthetics
Philosophy of Art
Definition of art, ontology of artworks, aesthetic properties
Beauty & Sublime
Nature of beauty, aesthetic experience, the sublime
Art & Emotion
Emotional responses to art, expression theory, empathy
Creativity
Artistic creativity, imagination, constraints on creativity
Environmental
Aesthetics of nature, landscape, ecological aesthetics
Everyday Aesthetics
Aesthetic experience in daily life, design, food
Cross-Cultural
Non-Western aesthetics, comparative aesthetics
Digital Arts
New media, video games, virtual reality art
Related Organizations
Academic societies and resources in aesthetics
American Society for Aesthetics
The premier organization for aesthetics in the United States.
British Society of Aesthetics
Promoting the study of aesthetics in the United Kingdom.
European Society for Aesthetics
Connecting aesthetics scholars across Europe.
Need More Resources?
Members have access to additional resources including conference proceedings and specialized bibliographies. Join our society to unlock the full collection.
Become a Member