Wednesday 8 June 2022: 5pm BST
Presenter: Robert R. Clewis (Gwynedd Mercy University)
Chair: Hans Maes (University of Kent)
Abstract:
Kant’s thoughts on humour in section §54 of the third Critique can be viewed as part of his aesthetics: his view of laughter at humour can be interpreted in terms of his notion of a “free play” of the mental powers. I explain some of sources and development of his thoughts on humour, as well as why he thinks that creating humour would be only an agreeable art rather than a fine art. Kant combines elements of incongruity, superiority, and release theories. While responding to other authors such as Mendelssohn, Hobbes, and Shaftesbury, Kant adds his own, more original, thoughts about humour by appealing to his theory of a free play between imagination and understanding. Once Kant begins to understand aesthetic responses in terms of a harmonious free play, it puts him in a position to connect humour to his wider aesthetic theory. I argue that Kant therefore has an account of humour, and I respond to some recent criticisms or discussions of this thesis. (There will also be some Kant jokes.)
Zoom link:
Hans Maes (he/him/his) is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Virtual Summer Aesthetics Festival: Robert R. Clewis
Time: Jun 8, 2022 05:00 PM London
Join Zoom Meeting
https://kent-ac-uk.zoom.us/j/97074869488?pwd=ZWhzVEhHYmduWVRjMSttaEpham9wUT09
Meeting ID: 970 7486 9488
Passcode: 083031