Arguments for Aesthetic Realism

This chapter introduces the doctrine of aesthetic realism more directly, by reviewing some of the strongest arguments for the view. At bottom, the positive defence of realism is based on explanatory considerations. Aesthetic realism is defended via an inference to the best explanation of the normativity of aesthetic discourse. In particular, the patent limitations of the applicability of aesthetic terms (including the most general aesthetic terms) seem to be best explained by realism.