Studies in Comparative Aesthetics
Summary
This review discusses a comparative study that juxtaposes Indian and Western theories of art. The work begins with an exposition of the Indian rasa theory as developed in Bharata Muni’s Natyasastra. Bharata identifies eight rasas—love, laughter, fury, compassion, disgust, horror, heroism and wonder—each with a presiding deity and colour. Later authors added a ninth rasa, santa (tranquility). Rasa theory posits that art evokes a distilled emotional flavour and that aesthetic pleasure arises when viewers perceive universalised emotions. The reviewer summarises how the book compares this theory with Western aesthetic thought, particularly Immanuel Kant’s Critique of Judgment. Kant argues that aesthetic judgment is disinterested and that we take pleasure in an object because we judge it beautiful. He further contends that aesthetic judgments are universal and that natural and artistic forms appear purposive without purpose. The book contrasts Kant’s emphasis on form with the Indian focus on emotive experience and empathetic identification. The article praises the comparative approach for revealing both convergences and differences. While Kant and Bharata agree that aesthetic experience transcends personal utility, rasa theory insists on specific emotional content whereas Western theories often emphasise form or subjective judgment. The reviewer concludes that such studies broaden our understanding of aesthetics by highlighting cultural assumptions.
Summary reviewed by a volunteer editor.
Conclusion
The review concludes that by placing rasa theory alongside Kantian and other Western approaches, the book demonstrates how different cultures conceptualise aesthetic experience. Bharata’s classification of rasas and the later addition of santa show the Indian concern with emotional universals, while Kant’s disinterested judgment emphasises formal harmony. Recognising these complementary insights encourages cross-cultural dialogue in aesthetics and enriches both traditions.