Matthew Kieran Libri

Exploring the significance of art, this book delves into its impact on our emotions and perceptions, questioning the nature of artistic judgment and the boundaries of morality in art. Through insightful discussions of iconic works, from Michelangelo's "Pieta" to Jackson Pollock's "Summertime," it challenges readers to consider whether art can be deemed immoral or obscene and the implications of censorship. Enhanced by a variety of illustrations, the text emphasizes the crucial role of imagination in understanding and appreciating art.

The book explores the profound impact of media on our understanding of current events and self-identity, highlighting the moral complexities faced by journalism. It develops a philosophical framework to address the goals of journalism, the essence of unbiased reporting, and the ethical boundaries surrounding issues like deception and censorship. Through critical analysis, it argues for clear moral rights and responsibilities for journalists, aiming to guide the discourse on ethical media practices.

"Knowing Art" features ten essays by leading philosophers examining the relationship between aesthetics and epistemology. Topics include the objectivity of critical knowledge, the role of perception in reasoning, and the limits of images as historical evidence, exploring how art challenges traditional knowledge theories.