Apr 15, 2008 6:54:21 PM cite

Being a creative soul is what makes us human. With that, being "artistic" or creative can take a positive or negative course and the method of expression can be interpreted subjectively. Most "artists" cite that their expression is a way of processing the world around them, observing and incorporating their own personal perspectives on issues such as abortion, religion, war or love. We as humans have choices everyday to take a positive stance or a negative one. Learning about the artistic endeavors of others often introduces us to ideas we would have not encountered on our own through our own life experiences, so to answer the question: Yes, the Arts can make us better in that we are more aware of the individuality of others and the common threads that we as humans share. It's what we do with this knowledge that defines the outcome.

by atomik2010

May 19, 2008 2:11:27 PM cite

I think this notion of art is being confused with creativity in the wider context of human nature. For many people in the world who live in poverty I doubt art serves the same purposes as those from the developed countries. Ofcourse people still need to express themselves for many different reasons. Some use it as a form of escapism, others for egotistical reasons. Merely being a "consumer" of arts or the arts does not make us better or worse. How we interpret such art depends on a wealth of socio-environmental issues and it is that interpretation that motivates our actions. The reason I would use the word "creativity" rather than "the arts" is because it is more general and allows participtation from everyone regardless of whether they are artistic (whatever artistic is). The ability to question our motivations and surroundings is a creative process - which allows us to develop/improve/adapt. And that, to me, is what makes us better.

by castromite

Apr 17, 2008 1:33:20 PM cite

"introduces us to ideas we would have not encountered on our own through our own life experiences". Or even re-introduces to us ideas and experiences we HAVE encountered, experiences we may actually share but weren't paying close enough attention. De'ja vu.

by April