Art Quote by Jacques Barzun
“On reflection, moral judgment in the arts appears rather as a tribute to their power to influence emotion and possibly conduct. And reflecting further on what some critics do today, one sees that a good many have merely shifted the ground of their moralism, transferring their impulse of righteousness to politics and social issues.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Future of the Past, 1965
Art influences emotions and behavior; critics often redirect moral concerns to politics.
In simple terms: Art shapes feelings; critics shift focus to politics.
Key Takeaway
Recognize art’s emotional power and critique responsibly.
Themes
art
morality
politics
criticism
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- museum curation
- political commentary
- media analysis
Key Concepts
aesthetic influence
ethical relativism
Questions to Reflect On
- How does art affect personal values?
- When is political critique appropriate in art?
A Different Perspective
Critics may oversimplify complex works.
