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Neuroaesthetics - Exploring the Science of Aesthetic Experience
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:08:09
Abstract
This seminar introduces students to theory and research, challenges, and opportunities in neuroaesthetics, with a clear emphasis on the interdisciplinary nature of the discipline situated at the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, and art appreciation. Foundational empirical methods and critical perspectives of research approaches in neuroaesthetics are considered.
Objective
- to familiarize students with concepts, models, methods, brain and behavioral findings related to aesthetic experience. - to develop a critical understanding in evaluating the theoretical and empirical findings in neuroaesthetics - to integrate the acquired knowledge to critically debate and discuss the conceptual and empirical issues related to the science of aesthetic experience
Content
In this seminar, students will learn about the foundational principles of neuroaesthetics, which explores the cognitive and brain processes involved in aesthetic experience. A key focus will be placed on developing an appreciation of the interdisciplinary methods used in the neuroaesthetics field – ranging from neuroscience, psychology, philosophy, and art history. The seminar is based on the active engagement of students in reading, presenting, and critically discussing selected papers in the field. In a final small-group assignment, students are expected to incorporate and elaborate upon the content covered in the seminar by presenting and discussing a novel research proposal for tackling a timely research question related to aesthetic experience.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- DS
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 45
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| seminar | Neuroaesthetics - Exploring the Science of Aesthetic Experience | No time listed | 2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Science in Perspective (In “Science in Perspective”-courses students learn to reflect on ETH’s STEM subjects from the perspective of humanities, political and social sciences. Only the courses listed below will be recognized as "Science in Perspective" courses.)
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Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Competence (SiP courses are recommended for bachelor students after their first-year examination and for all master- or doctoral students. All SiP courses are listed in Type A. Courses listed under Type B are only recommendations for enrollment for specific departments.)
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Type B: Reflection About Subject-Specific Methods and Contents (Subject-specific courses. Particularly relevant for students interested in those subjects. All these courses are also listed under the category “Typ A”, and every student can enroll in these courses.)
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