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Languages of Art

Disciplines:
epistemology
philosophy/philosophy of language
aesthetics

Summary

Nelson Goodman's application of symbol theory to the arts, analyzing representation, expression, and exemplification as modes of reference and distinguishing allographic from autographic arts.

Core Contribution

Art functions through symbol systems: representation (denotation), expression (metaphorical exemplification), and exemplification (literal instantiation of properties referred to). Distinguishes autographic arts (painting — forgery is possible) from allographic arts (music — notation permits multiple correct performances).

Historical Influences

Nelson Goodman

Intellectual Lineage

No conceptual lineage found.

Allied Works

The Transfiguration of the Commonplace The Aesthetic Point of View Ways of Worldmaking

Contemporaries & Peers

No recorded contemporaries.

Minds Influenced

No recorded minds influenced.

Intellectual Posterity

No conceptual posterity found.

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