In simple terms, Steven Pinker's statement suggests that art resonates with us because it taps into specific parts of our brain responsible for different sensory experiences and linguistic comprehension. Music affects us through the intricate workings of our auditory system, while painting and sculpture engage the visual system. Poetry and literature, on the other hand, depend heavily on language to convey their messages.
The deeper meaning behind this quote is that each form of art has its unique way of connecting with humans at a neurological level, engaging specific cognitive processes tied to sensory perception or linguistic abilities. This implies that our appreciation and understanding of different forms of art are deeply rooted in how our brain processes information from the world around us. For instance, music might evoke emotions through auditory patterns and melodies, while literature uses language to paint vivid mental images and elicit emotional responses through narrative and dialogue.
Steven Pinker is a renowned cognitive psychologist known for his work on language and the human mind. He holds a professorship at Harvard University and has written several influential books that explore the nature of language, thought, and society from a scientific perspective. His insights into how our brains process art and communicate are grounded in rigorous research but presented in an accessible manner to engage a wide audience.
