This paper argues that the human activity of art making and art usage has a biological foundation which precedes language acquisition. Together with cultural dynamics we have created ourselves as we have created our arts. I attempt a synthesis of the theories of Dissanayake and Joyce which shows the human trait of art behaviour evolved as surely as did the behaviours of mating and hunting.

First critical survey devoted to the history of philosophical contributions to this topic. Brings to light neglected contributions prior to the second half of the 20th century including works in Danish, German, and French. Provides a division of issues and clarifies key ambiguities related to modality.