Aestheticism
/iːsˈθɛtɪsɪzəm/noun
A philosophical doctrine emphasizing beauty as a fundamental principle.
Did you know?Aestheticism emerged in the 19th century as a revolt against the utilitarian values of the Industrial Revolution, linking beauty with spiritual transcendence.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
αἰσθητική (aisthētikē)
“The study of perception and sensation.”
18th Century
French
esthétique
“The philosophy of beauty and taste.”
19th Century
English
aestheticism
“An artistic movement prioritizing beauty over morality or social utility.”
Late 19th Century
English
aestheticist
“A proponent of the aesthetic movement, focusing on beauty as the ultimate ideal.”
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