In this episode, I speak with David Goldblatt, Professor Emeritus of Philosophy at Denison University, who has spent decades redefining how we think about aesthetics and art. Unlike traditional philosophers who primarily focus on "high art," David has expanded the boundaries of aesthetics to include overlooked yet culturally significant areas such as sports, ventriloquism, and jazz music. Our conversation opens with a lively debate about what truly qualifies as art, questioning why certain forms like classical music are often revered while others like doo-wop or even sports are marginalized.

We explore David's unique perspective on beauty, delving into how context, narrative, and personal connection shape our experiences and judgments of beauty. He highlights how everyday activities—like the movement of athletes or the simple silence in nature—can profoundly impact our emotional and intellectual landscapes. David passionately argues for recognizing beauty not only in extraordinary moments but also in the mundane, asserting that such experiences contribute significantly to personal happiness and optimism.

Finally, we dive into his fascination with ventriloquism, discussing its philosophical implications for identity and self-expression. We consider how ventriloquism metaphorically represents the internal dialogues we have with ourselves, offering insights into the complexity of human consciousness. Join me in this thoughtful exploration, as we uncover the profound ways beauty and art are woven into the fabric of our everyday lives.