Art and Entertainment A Philosophical Exploration

"There is a great deal to praise in the book, both regarding the clarity with which it has been composed as well as the broad scope of its subject matter. And both scholars and students (of both philosophy and the arts in general) will be able to laud the carefulness of Hamilton's arguments. ... Art and Entertainment is a worthwhile addition to the contemporary discussion of a wide variety of topics in philosophy, aesthetics, and the arts in general. It offers both the expert and the novice a great deal of thoughtful engagement with these issues." - Joshua Heter, Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews

"At long last, a book that confronts the ghost in the closet of aesthetic theory: entertainment. Andy Hamilton is highly qualified to tackle it, and the results are compelling, informed, and innovative." - Theodore Gracyk, Minnesota State University Moorhead, USA

"A persuasive perspective on the aesthetics of entertainment, exploring a debate that feels both very old and highly current. Readers discover that the art/entertainment dichotomy is far more complex than it seems." - Elisabet Dijkstra, composer

"Andy Hamilton presents a compelling manifesto for Real Aesthetics: a vision of aesthetic inquiry that places the actual artworld and the lived experience of the artist centre stage. Through dialogue with artists and musicians, critics and philosophers, Hamilton takes us beyond the academy to collaborative spaces in which concepts are defined by their use. Essential reading for philosophers of art, practicing artists and those who like to be entertained." - Andrew Cooper, Warwick University, UK

"With its rich examples, this inventive discussion will reward any reader interested in art or entertainment." - Dawn M. Wilson, University of Hull, UK

"R.G. Collingwood said that a work of entertainment is not a genuine work of art. In this thought-provoking book Hamilton finds plenty of cases to dispute that. One of its main virtues is the way that Hamilton balances theory and practice, interweaving theoretical chapters - which draw on an abundance of deftly chosen examples - with in-depth interviews with artists and philosophers. The result is more than entertaining!" - David Macarthur, University of Sydney, Australia