91É«Ç鯬

This week’s new questions

Why are humans able to find aesthetic beauty in inanimate objects? Can acquired tastes become unacquired if they no longer offer survival benefits?

From art to architecture, and even cars, why are humans able to find aesthetic beauty in inanimate objects?

Scott Fuller
London, UK

Ìý

Ìý

3BHT28Y A young woman in an elegant baroque gown enjoys a delicate treat, embodying historical luxury and modern delight

Can acquired tastes become unacquired if they no longer offer survival benefits?

Celine Szoges Schwartz
Thornbury, Ontario, Canada

Ìý

Last Word is New Scientist’s long-running series in which readers give scientific answers to each other’s questions, ranging from the minutiae of everyday life to absurd astronomical hypotheticals. To answer a question or ask a new one, email lastword@newscientist.com

To answer this question – or ask a new one – email lastword@newscientist.com.

Questions should be scientific enquiries about everyday phenomena, and both questions and answers should be concise. We reserve the right to edit items for clarity and style. Please include a postal address, daytime telephone number and email address.

91É«Ç鯬 retains total editorial control over the published content and reserves all rights to reuse question and answer material that has been submitted by readers in any medium or in any format.

Terms and conditions apply.

Topics: Last Word

More from New Scientist

Explore the latest news, articles and features