We were walking by the marketplace the other day, me and Socrates, that is. As usual, today is a busy day with merchants everywhere trying to sell their products. Socrates had a fondness for art and so we went by the art section. While walking around and commenting on the different pieces of art, something suddenly caught Socrates’ attention. He overheard someone by the name of Eutropius attempting to get a refund on a sculpture he bought. The sculptor was called Apollodoros. Initially, the conversation revolved around Eutropius claiming that he should rightfully receive a refund. Apollodoros refused, claiming that he created good art and that he does not give refunds for creations he put his heart into. The conversation then soon evolved into a debate about art.

            Eutropius: Well, sir, I do not exactly see how you could call this art. It is sloppy and obscene. I find it unlikely that you put your heart into it. To be honest with you, I bought it on a whim without exactly realizing what I did. Now I regret my decision and I think that any proper gentleman should rightfully give me a refund.

            Apollodoros: Sir, what you said is insulting. Never have I ever heard such words. And think that I thought you scrupulous!

            Now Socrates, being the lover of conversation, soon joined the discussion.

            Socrates: Well, well. What an interesting discussion. I can clearly see here that the argument ultimately revolves around the question – what is art? Both of you seem to have different positions. I think we can make more progress if you clarify your positions. First, Eutropius, what do you believe is art?

            Eutropius: Socrates, art is what I think it is. If I look at the statue and I do not think that it is art, then to me, it is not art. It is not a fact that this statue is art.

            Socrates: Good. And you, Apollodoros, what is art?

            Apollodoros: Art is not something you or I decide. Whether or not something is a work of art is essentially a fact. Even if you do not think my sculpture is a work of art, it does not matter. It is a work of art despite however you feel.