Why Science Needs Art : From Historical to Modern Day Perspectives

Art, Science and the Brain explores the relationship between art and science, considering how these seemingly polarised fields have historically informed and influenced each other. Reflecting on a time when art and science were considered inseparable and symbiotic pursuits, the book discusses how public perception of the relationship between these disciplines has changed, with common opinion that they are fundamentally opposite. The authors argue that art and science are not disparate disciplines, and that there are many examples of the role that art has played for science. The book concludes with insights into the emerging field of neuroaesthetics, and the role it will play in this complex relationship.

Why Science Needs Art explores the complex relationship between these seemingly polarised fields. Reflecting on a time when art and science were considered inseparable and symbiotic pursuits, the book discusses how they have historically informed and influenced each other, before considering how public perception of the relationship between these disciplines has fundamentally changed.

Science and art have something very important in common: they both seek to reduce something infinitely complex to something simpler. Using examples from diverse areas including microscopy, brain injury, classical art, and data visualization, the book delves into the history of the intersection of these two disciplines, before considering current tensions between the fields. The emerging field of neuroaesthetics and its attempts to scientifically understand what humans find beautiful is also explored, suggesting ways in which the relationship between art and science may return to a more co-operative state in the future.

Why Science Needs Art provides an essential insight into the relationship between art and science in an appealing and relevant way. Featuring colorful examples throughout, the book will be of interest to students and researchers of neuroaesthetics and visual perception, as well as all those wanting to discover more about the complex and exciting intersection of art and science.