Date of Birth: February 9, 1944
Zodiac Sign: Aquarius
Date of Death: December 28, 2010
Biography
Denis Dutton was an influential American philosopher best known for his work on aesthetics and the philosophy of art. Born in Los Angeles, California, Dutton pursued his undergraduate studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and later earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of California, Santa Barbara, in 1975. He became a prominent academic figure, teaching at various universities, including the University of Canterbury in New Zealand where he was a professor of philosophy. Dutton’s contributions to the field extended beyond academia; he was the founder and editor of the popular website Arts & Letters Daily, which served as a significant platform for discourse on literature, philosophy, and art. His book, “The Art Instinct: Beauty, Pleasure, and Human Evolution,” published in 2009, explored the evolutionary underpinnings of art and aesthetics, garnering widespread acclaim. Throughout his career, Dutton emphasized the importance of critical thinking and the role of art in human evolution. He was known for his engaging lectures and sharp wit, making complex philosophical concepts accessible to a broader audience. Dutton passed away in 2010, leaving behind a legacy of intellectual rigor and passion for the arts.
5 Interesting Facts about Denis Dutton
1. Denis Dutton founded the website Arts & Letters Daily in 1998, which became a hub for intellectual discourse.
2. He wrote the book “The Art Instinct,” which argues that art is a biological adaptation shaped by natural selection.
3. Dutton was also an accomplished pianist and had a deep appreciation for classical music.
4. He was a critic of postmodernism and often challenged its principles in his writings and lectures.
5. Dutton’s work has been translated into multiple languages, reflecting his international influence.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Denis Dutton
1. “The arts are not just a leisure activity; they are a fundamental part of human nature.”
2. “Beauty is not just in the eye of the beholder; it is a deep-seated part of our evolutionary heritage.”
3. “Critical thinking is the cornerstone of a well-functioning democracy.”
4. “Artistic expression is a universal human trait that transcends cultures and epochs.”
5. “Postmodernism often undermines the very foundations of intellectual discourse.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
The highest net worth Denis Dutton achieved is not well-documented, but his influence and contributions to philosophy and the arts were invaluable.
Children
Denis Dutton had one child, a son named Michael Dutton.
Relevant Links
1. [Arts & Letters Daily](https://www.aldaily.com
2. [Denis Dutton on Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denis_Dutton
4. [Obituary in The New York Times](https://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/04/world/asia/04dutton.html
