A Philosophy of Architecture

by Machado, Oscar A.

To evaluate specific architectural theories, an analytic methodology was used. The specific architectural theories evaluated all have in common the fact that their formative models can explain how their original ideas manifest in the practice of architectural works. Although these architectural theories researched are thousands or in some cases hundreds of years apart, a way to compare and contrast them was to use philosophies of art common to all. This contemporary approach to analysis was done with the use of analytic philosophy for its effectiveness to clarify concepts. Central aspects of architectural theories will be analyzed in detail through the lenses of four contemporary theories of the philosophy of art. They are: formalism (including neo-formalism and theories that emphasize the connection between form and function), expression theories, representation theories (including neo-representational and mimetic accounts), and theories based on aesthetic experience. Looking at architecture from the viewpoint of analytic philosophy of art provides new insights into the nature of architecture and illuminates the field in significant ways. A recommendation for further study is enclosed.