Taste: On the Point of Intersection of Objective and Subjective

Abstract

Hume's solution of the problem of taste is based on two ultimately contingent natural facts: (1) that “some particular forms or qualities are calculated to please, and other to displease”; and (2) on contingent uniformity of human sensibility, on equality of “the original structure of the internal fabric” of our mind. Hume approve subjectivistic and “emotional” conception that an aesthetic judgement is a matter of feeling, yet at the same time it seems that – speaking of an aesthetic judgement – correct and in correct are concepts we are still allowed to use. That is how he tames aesthetic subjectivism and separates it of aesthetic scepticism. Hume actually reconciles two elements of common sense, its subjectivism and its learning towards the standard of taste.

Normativity of an aesthetic judgement is all but easy problem for Hume. Hume only seems to offer causal, psychological explanation of why do we submit to the critic's judgement. He does not tell us why are we supposed to do so.