The Aesthetics of Natural Environments

by Allen Carlson (Editor), Arnold Berleant

The Aesthetics of Natural Environments is a collection of essays investigating philosophical and aesthetics issues that arise in our appreciation of natural environments. The introduction gives an historical and conceptual overview of the rapidly developing field of study known as environmental aesthetics. The essays consist of classic pieces as well as new contributions by some of the most prominent individuals now working in the field and range from theoretical to applied approaches. The topics covered include the nature and value of natural beauty, the relationship between art appreciation and nature appreciation, the role of knowledge in the aesthetic appreciation of nature, the importance of environmental participation to the appreciation of environments, and the connections between the aesthetic appreciation of nature and our ethical obligations concerning its maintenance and preservation. This volume is for scholars and students focussed on nature, landscapes, and environments, individuals in areas such as aesthetics, environmental ethics, geography, environmental studies, landscape architecture, landscape ecology, and the planning and design disciplines. It is also for any reader interested in and concerned about the aesthetic quality of the world in which we live.

312 pages, Paperback

First published February 10, 2004

Reviews

[Sophia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Had to read for class. Full of many essays that make many interesting points about nature and art, how they compare and how they don't, how we interact with them, etc. Thought provoking.

[Alexander Asay · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Aesthetics of Natural Environments is a compelling anthology that delves into the philosophical exploration of how we perceive, appreciate, and interact with nature from an aesthetic perspective. This collection brings together various essays from leading scholars in environmental aesthetics, offering a broad spectrum of views on the aesthetic appreciation of the natural world.

Carlson has curated this anthology to challenge and expand upon traditional notions of art and beauty by applying aesthetic theory to landscapes, wildlife, and natural phenomena. The essays cover a range of topics from the appreciation of wild nature versus cultivated landscapes, to the implications of environmental ethics in aesthetic judgments. Contributors argue for a rethinking of aesthetic values in light of ecological awareness, questioning whether we can truly appreciate nature without understanding its ecological processes.

The anthology is structured to provide both historical context and contemporary debates. It begins with foundational texts that set the stage for environmental aesthetics as a field of study, moving into more specialized discussions on topics like the aesthetic significance of biodiversity, the role of science in aesthetic appreciation, and the impact of human intervention on natural beauty.

One of the anthology's strengths is its interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from philosophy, environmental science, art, and even psychology. However, this breadth can also be a limitation for readers seeking a more unified thematic exploration; the diversity of perspectives sometimes lacks a cohesive argumentative thread, which might challenge those new to the subject or looking for a singular theoretical framework.

Carlson's editorial work is evident in the thoughtful arrangement of essays, which fosters dialogue across various viewpoints. The writing is generally clear, though the philosophical nature of some discussions might require readers to engage deeply with the material. This collection will appeal to scholars, students, and enthusiasts in philosophy, environmental studies, and aesthetics, offering rich material for reflection on how and why we value nature's beauty.

[Karmen Franklin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting essays! Berleant argues that seeing a deer from the window of a moving vehicle is no more an encounter with the wild than visiting a deer in a zoo. I don't entirely agree, but he makes a moving argument for engaging oneself in nature. Read this book, then go wander in the wild or climb a tree!