ABSTRAT
This paper analyzes Morris Weitz’s claim that art cannot possibly be defined in terms of necessary and sufficient conditions. Weitz argues that aesthetic theories, since they seek a definition that captures the essence of art, attempt to define what cannot be defined. This paper demonstrates that Weitz’s argument, which is centered on the use of the concept of art as an open concept and on the analysis of the extension of the term “art,” is refuted by objections that involve the notion of family resemblance. In addition, this paper points out two perspectives regarding the debate as to whether art can be defined: one that retakes Weitz’s position, and another that proposes definitions in terms denied by him.
Keywords:
art theory; definition of art; family resemblance; contemporary art