Aesthetic Cognitivism: Art as a Source of Understanding

Aesthetic Cognitivism: This philosophical stance proposes that art, in certain respects, functions similarly to science by providing knowledge or understanding.
Science's Reputation: Science holds a strong reputation for producing knowledge about the world and enabling technological advancements (e.g., super-powerful computers, sending humans to the moon, space exploration). This positive perception makes the comparison a strong argument.
Art's Role: The argument is that art, much like science, provides understanding.

Skeptic's Question: A common skepticism arises regarding how art provides knowledge, given that science offers clear, empirical, and factual information (e.g., the periodic table, laws of thermodynamics, law of gravity).
Art's Distinction from Factual Knowledge: Art does not primarily provide factual data like textbooks. While facts can be part of artworks, they are not the central element.
The Nature of Artistic Knowledge: An aesthetic cognitivist would argue that art increases our understanding of ourselves and the world, offering something beyond mere facts.

Representation: Art consistently represents something. The artist's choice of subject matter, and the skillful execution of its representation, can lead the audience to learn about that subject.
- Example: Poetry: A poem might represent love, loss, flowers, or beauty. While one might have a superficial understanding (e.g., seeing flowers only as gifts), a poem can evoke a deeper appreciation, highlighting beauty or other meanings, leading to new insights.
Insight and Illumination: Art provides insight and illumination into a subject, rather than factual data (e.g., not the technical parts of a flower's anatomy like pistil or stamen). It helps us see subjects in a new light.
Learning About Human Nature: Art allows us to learn about ourselves and human nature – what it means to be human.
Models and Illustrations: According to Graham, art offers