Esthetically: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Greek word 'aisthesis', which means 'sensation' or 'perception'.
• It evolved through Latin and French before becoming an established term in English in the 19th century.

Art

• The aesthetic movement of the late 19th century emphasized beauty over utility, influencing artists and designers.
• Many famous artists, like Vincent van Gogh, were driven by their understanding of beauty and how it can evoke emotion.

Philosophy

• Philosophers like Immanuel Kant discussed aesthetics, believing beauty is subjective and can vary from person to person.
• The concept of the 'sublime', explored by Edmund Burke, shows how beauty can be tied to feelings of overwhelming awe.

Psychology

• Studies in psychology reveal that visually appealing objects can positively affect our mood and encourage creativity.
• The 'mere exposure effect' suggests that the more we see something we find beautiful, the more we tend to like it.

Design

• In design, aesthetics play a crucial role in user experience, ensuring that products are not just functional but also pleasing.
• Minimalism, a popular design trend, focuses on the aesthetic of simplicity, highlighting the beauty in clean lines and fewer elements.