The Neuroethics of BeautyInsights from Aldous Huxley´s Theory of Knowledge

Abstract

In this chapter, I delve into the role of beauty in the understanding of human behavior, and, to carry this out, I will present some of Huxley’s ideas about science and art relationship. More specifically, I will show that, for Huxley, science is not a matter of simple curiosity or practical interest, but of demanding love. In other words, facing reality implies the development of human sensitivity, that is to say, the capacity to be aware of other’s needs and anticipate their demands. Similarly, for Huxley, interdisciplinary attitudes, which are inherent to scientific progress, are explained by a long chain of teleological natural dynamism (cosmic harmony) that brings researchers together. In this methodological framework, I analyze and compare two Huxley’s distinctions: on one hand, knowledge and understanding, and on the other hand, emotions and beauty. In my conclusions, I defend that Huxley’s notions of understanding and beauty are not fully accessible to neuroscience, but still they are essential to orientate neuroscience toward the study of human decision-making process.