In his lecture "The Decline of Art in Western Civilization," Yaron Brook explores how the prevailing philosophical outlook in a culture is reflected in its art. Using examples spanning centuries, he traces the evolution of the view of humanity through major works of sculpture.

Brook contrasts the static, idealized figures of ancient Egypt, the downtrodden and despairing forms of the Middle Ages, the heroic and life-affirming works of the Renaissance (highlighting Michelangelo), and the fragmented, distorted human depictions of the modern era (examining works by Giacometti). Through these comparisons, he illustrates the decline of art's portrayal of humanity as philosophical ideas moved away from reason and individualism toward nihilism and subjectivism.Delivered in Oslo, Norway, on December 1, 2024.