Is Aesthetic Sense Universal?
Concept and application. We need to differentiate between the two while discussing such problems. When we say there is a difference of perceptions or standard of beauty. We at the same time admit that at the level of concept all agree there is beauty. Secondly Quran is universal in its message but it’s setting is local. It alluded to its being universal by staying like you will find in paradise whatever you wish. Then it tells the Arabs, who were the immediate addressees, that they will get women of fair complexion. We deduce that if they will get their choice other will have their choice too.
‘We at the same time admit that at the level of concept all agree there is beauty.’ That’s exactly what we’re not admitting. Because he doesn’t agree with my level of beauty and I don’t agree with his.