Reflections on the Croce—Dewey exchange

Abstract

The well-known dispute between Benedetto Croce and John Dewey had several elements at its origin. This article provides a systematic overview of the issues that impinged on this affair, and of the many studies which have dwelt on the exchange between these two philosophers. The underlying American antiHegelianism, the language problem and the actual differences in thinking on aesthetics are all fundamental to this mutual misunderstanding. The reasons why Croce had made a limited impact in the United States are discussed. The analysis concludes by highlighting the socio-ethical aspects of Deweyan aesthetics.