Dewey, School Violence, and Aesthetic Response

• In Event: 26.054 - Contemporary Interpretations and Enactments of John Dewey's Legacy

Abstract

Since the shooting Sandy Hook Elementary in December, 2012 there have been 34 more school shootings as of June, 2014(FactCheck, 2014). Our paper focuses on how John Dewey would have addressed school shootings and aesthetic responses to these violent acts. Specifically, how does Dewey understand violence as it intersects with aesthetic response? Our inquiry includes analysis of three works of art made in response to school shootings. Results focus on how art works depict the effects of shootings; how aesthetic responses work to rebuild social contracts and bonds; and how aesthetic responses point to the use of ‘power and energy’. This exploration can assist educators in finding an ameliorant and a means to teach and learn about these violent events.

Authors

• Patricia L. Maarhuis, Washington State University

• A.G. Rud, Washington State University