Stylistic Evolution in European Music

Abstract

An evolutionary theory of change in the arts is described. Successive artists hypothetically must increase the arousal potential or impact value of their art works in order to counter habituation or boredom in the audience. Within any style, this is done by engaging in deeper regression (alteration in consciousness). This leads to increases in primary process content in the works of art produced. When this method becomes too difficult, stylistic change occurs and primary process content declines. Theoretical hypotheses were tested by obtaining ratings of musical themes by 252 British, French, German and Italian composers born between 1490 and 1909. Results were closely in accord with predictions except for the series of Italian composers. Results of a statistical analysis of cross-national stylistic influences are presented.

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