The Biology of Art

'This seventy-one page book by Richard A. Richards is in Cambridge's Elements in the Philosophy of Biology series, which provides 'concise and structured introductions to all of the central topics in the philosophy of biology'. It meets these conditions admirably. As well, it is clearly written and highly accessible, avoiding jargon and explaining technical terms where required. It judiciously evaluates arguments and positions for their merits and faults. It can be read usefully by those whose interest is more in art than biology, including undergraduates.' British Journal of Aesthetics

'I found it highly readable and engaging. No knowledge of philosophy of art is presumed. It provides a balanced introduction, and a clear articulation of the author's view. I would not hesitate to recommend The Biology of Art to a newcomer to philosophical aesthetics or to set it as a reading in an undergraduate philosophy of art course. Indeed, I think it would serve class discussions well … The book is a curious contribution to a Philosophy of Biology series. Many central controversies in philosophy of biology can be brought to bear on the arts. This element sidesteps those to offer instead a defence of naturalism in philosophy of art-a position I would wager most professional philosophers of biology would already endorse.' Anton Killin, Metascience