Pages 47–48 Concept vs. Word 'Art' • Distinguish universal concept of art from English word usage. • Start with clear examples before edge cases. • Analogy: 'Language' – don’t let marginal debates obscure core cases.
Pages 48–50 Problems with Past Theories • Theories shaped by their time & personal taste (Plato, Kant, Bell, Danto). • Personal bias skews definitions. • Extreme positions stimulate debate but distort understanding.
Pages 50–51 Hard Cases Problem • Overfocus on fringe works (Duchamp, minimalism). • Analogy: law – don’t define murder starting with assisted suicide. • Begin with uncontroversial art.
Pages 51–52 Naturalistic Approach • See art as a universal human activity. • Cross-cultural reach: cave art to Hollywood. • Identify 'cluster criteria' common worldwide.
Pages 59–61 Purpose of the List • Describes features recognizable without experts. • Some traits (audience, culture) too broad. • Cultural identity not universal or necessary.
Pages 61–63 Using Cluster Criteria • Not a strict formula. • Example: World Cup final – has skill, focus, emotion, criticism but lacks 'imaginative experience.' • Explains why sports ≠ art (generally).
Pages 63–67 Final Points • Art predates theories; like religion or family. • Defining art doesn’t limit creativity. • Cluster-criteria allows flexible, grounded debate.