In this groundbreaking work of cultural criticism, Johann Gottfried von Herder explores the causes and effects of the decline of taste and aesthetic standards in different cultures. Drawing on his vast knowledge of literature, art, and philosophy, Herder provides a sweeping panorama of the cultural landscape of his time, and a compelling case for the importance of cultivating taste and discernment.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.