The question posed is indeed an intriguing one. It implies that one's sense of morality can be restored through the appreciation of something beautiful, which leads to the question of what constitutes "beauty". Some may argue that the pursuit of art and aesthetic pleasure is inherently selfish, while others might suggest that it can also serve as a means for social bonding and personal growth. This essay will explore both perspectives, presenting evidence from various fields such as psychology, philosophy, and religion.
Let us consider the notion that beauty is subjective and that its definition varies across cultures and individuals. The Oxford English Dictionary defines beauty as "the quality of being pleasing to the senses, especially sight."
This view fails to account for the complexity of human emotions and experiences. Beauty goes beyond mere visual stimulation - it has the power to evoke feelings, memories, and associations that are deeply personal and unique to each individual.
Some people find certain landscapes or pieces of music to be breathtakingly beautiful, whereas others may prefer different types of art forms altogether. In other words, beauty exists in the eye of the beholder and cannot be objectively defined.
This suggests that the restoration of faith in human goodness through beauty is unlikely to occur at the societal level, where beauty is typically associated with materialistic values such as wealth, status, and physical attractiveness.
On the individual level, beauty can certainly inspire positive emotions and foster empathy and compassion towards others. It could help us reconnect with our inner selves and remind us of the interconnectedness between all living things. This sentiment is reflected in philosophical texts like Plato's Symposium, which emphasizes love and beauty as gateways to understanding the divine.
Psychological research also supports this claim. A study by Dacher Keltner et al. (2013) found that exposure to aesthetic experiences such as nature walks and classical music led participants to experience increased happiness, gratitude, and generosity towards strangers. Similarly, research by Fredrickson and Losada (2005) demonstrated that positive emotional states can lead to more creative problem-solving and greater resilience in times of adversity. Therefore, engaging with beauty - whether it's in the form of art, nature, or relationships - can promote wellbeing and enhance our sense of morality and virtue.
On the flip side, some argue that beauty is inherently superficial and shallow, leading people to indulge in selfish pursuits without considering their impact on society. They suggest that art is often used as a tool for social control and power dynamics, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and oppressive systems.
The fetishization of women's bodies in Western culture has been linked to objectification, sexual violence, and exploitation.
Even if beauty does have negative consequences, it still holds value as an expression of human creativity and imagination. It allows us to connect with one another emotionally and intellectually, making us feel seen and understood.
While the experience of beauty alone cannot restore faith in human goodness at the societal level, it can certainly have a profound effect on individuals. By fostering feelings of compassion and empathy, promoting positive emotions, and encouraging creative thinking, beauty can remind us that there is goodness in the world despite its flaws. Whether we choose to seek out art, music, or natural beauty, allowing ourselves to be moved by these experiences can help us become better versions of ourselves and reconnect with others.
Can the experience of beauty restore faith in human goodness?
Yes, experiencing beauty can help individuals reconnect with their humanity and regain trust in others. Beauty has long been associated with positive emotions and happiness, which can foster feelings of optimism and hope for a better future. In addition, exposure to beautiful art and nature may enhance empathy and compassion, leading to a greater appreciation for the inherent value of all life forms.