Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book provides a radical critique of the marginalization of aesthetics by drawing upon John Dewey's work. It also provides a comprehensive account of the aesthetic dimensions of any developed cognitive experience and takes a stance against the common theorization of architecture as a "lesser art." The book discusses the underlying interpretative and evaluative processes involved in experiencing buildings, through an analysis of Nelson Goodman's theories of aesthetics. It also discusses ethical and moral aspects of everyday aesthetics. The book argues that buildings provide a mental mediation between the world and human consciousness and possess a capacity to lead one to unconscious motifs, memories, desires, and fears. It examines the exploration of everyday aesthetics by delving into day-to-day acts of space-making. The book also examines popular practices that have succeeded with everyday users but remain contested in the architectural academy.