ABSTRACT
One of the typical assumptions of traditional aesthetic theory has been that certain features must characterize all objects properly regarded as works of fine art. And the further assumption that some of these features characterize only works of fine art has occasioned both the search for a definition of art and the attempt to elicit an ultimate ground of critical judgement. It has long been apparent that the traditional theories have made inadequate suggestions as to what these features might in fact be. For most of the suggested properties do not seem even to constitute necessary. search for an aesthetic essence may well succeed the search for an artistic essence. And it may take the form either of a psychological search for features common to aesthetic experience, or its preconditions, or of a logical inquiry into the features common to the criteria of specifically aesthetic judgement.
