Natural Beauty and the Good Life. International Workshop

Natural Beauty and the Good Life

International Workshop – University of Basel, 19–20 September 2025

The workshop “Natural Beauty and the Good Life”, hosted by the Department of Philosophy at the University of Basel, brought together international scholars to discuss the role of natural beauty in shaping a good and fulfilling life. Over two days, the programme combined philosophical, phenomenological, and ethical perspectives, creating dialogue between cultural traditions and contemporary approaches in environmental aesthetics.

Among the participants were several partners of EVAnet:

Yuriko Saito (Professor Emerita, Rhode Island School of Design) offered an original intercultural exploration of the “humble beauty” of weeds, highlighting their often-overlooked aesthetic and moral significance. Emily Brady (Professor, Texas A&M University) examined the various manifestations of natural beauty and their relationship to the “good life”, showing how diverse aesthetic experiences contribute to human flourishing.

Elisabetta Di Stefano (Professor, University of Palermo) reflected on frugality and humility as aesthetic attitudes that guide us towards a eudaimonic art of living, combining environmental aesthetics with responsibility and care. Stephanie Schuster (PhD candidate, University of Basel) addressed the theme of “feeling at home in the world”, raising the question of whether the encounter with natural beauty should be regarded as a fundamental human right.

In addition to academic discussions, the workshop also included convivial moments spent in nature, allowing participants to directly experience many of the themes explored during the sessions.

The event clearly demonstrated how EVAnet is growing as a vibrant and dynamic community, continually expanding its research themes and opening up new horizons of reflection. Thanks to the contributions of senior members and the enthusiasm of younger generations, the network is increasingly establishing itself as an international reference point in environmental aesthetics. What makes EVAnet distinctive is its collaborative and inclusive spirit, fostering dialogue across generations, cultures, and approaches, and ensuring that the field continues to develop in rich and innovative ways.