Blog #3 Austin Justice

Currently, I'm contemplating the material we covered in class recently. According to Carlson's five requirements for a model, the Natural Environmental Model ultimately exists as the only one with which an individual can appropriately and aesthetically appreciate the natural world. The Natural Environmental Model declares that through the employment of common sense, coupled with scientific knowledge of nature itself, we can "acheive appropriate aesthetic appreciation" (Carlson 34-35). While I agree with Allen Carlson that a broader intellectual base tends to stimulate an increasingly accurate response, I also believe that we must immerse ourselves in nature, in order to wholeheartedly experience the flora and fauna of the natural world. For example, Thomas More College is nestled in Crestview Hills, Kentucky, a small, but prosperous city which strives to balance the quality of life with growth. Although the disruption of the natural world is perceived in a negative context, I would argue that beauty exists beyond the eye of the beholder. The close proximity of Thomas More College offers students and staff alike the opportunity to familiarize themselves with their respective surroundings. In turn, this promotes a sense of community amongst its members, which greatly increases the chances of success for a multitude of individuals. Especially for me, the beauty of Thomas More College can be visualized through the everyday actions of others. I cannot go through the course of a single day without a door being held for me, a friendly greeting from peers and professors alike and so much more. Thomas More College is in relatively close proximity to my hometown of Mason, Ohio. Therefore, I am far enough away from home to become self-sufficient, but close enough if any sense of urgency arises. Thomas More College offers its students everything, but asks for nothing in return. Each and every day, there is a different fun activity/event that engages others. Though Thomas More College may not subsist as pristine nature, uninterrupted by human interference, it will persist as a remarkable institution throught which an individual can succeed. Considering the fact that beauty is relative, my perception of it differs from almost everyone else's opinion. What could be more beautiful than the progression from the past, to the present, to the future? Sincerely, Austin Justice