Art is among the pillars of human civilization. From cave paintings, to ornate buildings and architecture, to portraiture, landscape paintings, and sculpture, art has shaped how humans interpret their world and render it meaningful. This course will explore the place of art in human culture by thinking through the ways in which art derives its meaning and value. Among other things, it will discuss the validity of distinctions between “high” and “low” art, examine the role of technology and technique in the creation of art works, and consider the boundaries of art as new media challenge our pre-existing ideas about what art is and should be. Are video games art? What about TV and popular film? Through an in-depth exploration of these and other questions, students will acquire a deeper understanding of and appreciation for the philosophical complexities surrounding the creation and enjoyment of art.