Theories change with the subject they are trying to analyze and formalize

As art forms and techniques change and develop, as artistic fashions blossom or fade, so art theory too tags along, altering its focus, shifting its values.

Denis Dutton, 2009.

Theories often claim universality, but—as demonstrated for art theory—the approach to theoretical tinkering and formulation depends on historical epoch, learned culture and personal bias. Do theories exist mind-independent—like, perhaps, prime numbers—or are they simply human affairs and brainstorming precipitations?

Keywords: rational thinking, philosophy, arts.

Reference

Denis Dutton: The Art Instinct. Beauty, Pleasure & Human Evolution. Bloomsbury Press, New York, 2009; page 48.