Formalism
Introduction to Formalism
Formalism is a critical approach that emphasizes the formal elements of a work of art or literature, such as structure, style, and technique, rather than its content or context. This approach is particularly prevalent in the fields of literary theory, art criticism, and mathematics, where it serves as a framework for understanding the intrinsic qualities of a work by focusing on its form rather than its extrinsic elements.
Formalism in Literary Theory
Formalism in literary theory, often associated with the Russian Formalists and the New Critics, prioritizes the analysis of literary devices and structures. The Russian Formalists, including figures like Viktor Shklovsky and Roman Jakobson, sought to establish a scientific basis for literary criticism by examining the mechanics of literature. They introduced concepts such as "defamiliarization," which refers to the technique of making the familiar seem strange to enhance perception of the ordinary.
The New Criticism movement, prominent in the United States during the mid-20th century, shared similar principles. Critics like John Crowe Ransom and Cleanth Brooks advocated for close reading, a method that involves detailed analysis of the text itself, independent of authorial intent or historical context. This approach emphasizes the importance of elements such as irony, paradox, and ambiguity in creating meaning within a text.
Formalism in Art Criticism
In art criticism, formalism focuses on the visual elements of a work, such as color, line, shape, and composition. This approach is often associated with critics like Clement Greenberg, who argued that the value of a painting lies in its formal qualities rather than its representational content. Greenberg's advocacy for abstract expressionism was rooted in his belief that art should be self-referential, emphasizing its own materiality and medium.
Formalism in art criticism often contrasts with approaches that consider the social, political, or historical context of a work. By concentrating on the formal aspects, critics aim to understand the aesthetic experience and the artist's mastery of the medium.
Formalism in Mathematics
In mathematics, formalism is a philosophy that views mathematical truths as statements about the manipulation of symbols according to specified rules. This perspective is closely associated with David Hilbert, who proposed formalism as a way to provide a secure foundation for mathematics. Hilbert's program aimed to formalize all of mathematics in a complete and consistent system, using axioms and logical inference.
Formalism in mathematics contrasts with other philosophical approaches, such as Platonism, which posits that mathematical entities exist independently of human thought, and intuitionism, which emphasizes the mental construction of mathematical objects. Formalists argue that mathematics is not about discovering truths but about creating a coherent system of symbols and rules.
Criticisms of Formalism
Despite its influence, formalism has faced criticism for its perceived limitations. In literary theory, critics argue that formalism neglects the social, historical, and political dimensions of texts. By focusing solely on form, formalists may overlook the ways in which literature engages with the world beyond the text.
In art criticism, formalism is criticized for ignoring the cultural and contextual factors that influence the creation and reception of art. Critics argue that an exclusive focus on form can lead to an elitist perspective that dismisses the significance of content and meaning.
In mathematics, formalism is challenged by those who believe that mathematical truths have an existence beyond symbolic manipulation. Critics argue that formalism cannot account for the intuitive and creative aspects of mathematical discovery.