Good taste isn't a Good Thing. It's just admirable
The article explores the distinction between 'good taste' and personal preference, using music as a primary example to argue that while good taste may not make the world better, it can still be admirable. The author reflects on how exposure and experience shape artistic appreciation, often leading to a desire for more complex or challenging works. Ultimately, the piece suggests that admiration for skill and creativity in art, like selfless acts, holds value beyond mere utility or enjoyment.
- ▪Good taste is portrayed as admirable but not necessarily beneficial to society.
- ▪The author curates extensive music playlists and values complexity in music, such as unusual time signatures.
- ▪Scott Alexander is mentioned as a thinker who questions the practical value of good taste.
- ▪Songs in uncommon time signatures like 7 or 11 are highlighted as examples of artistic challenge and mastery.
- ▪The author distinguishes between personal enjoyment, like that of a child listening to 'Choo Choo Train,' and the refined appreciation of sophisticated art.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
PersonalGood taste isn't a Good Thing. It's just admirableWhy the best band of all time is the best, despite not being my personal favorite.SteffeeMay 16, 2026ShareProbably my favorite objection to consequentialism is the following:Say there are siblings Bob and Carol, whose lives we judge to be worth equal utility…Then Bob sacrificing his own life to save Carol’s is a morally neutral act.But our intuitions clearly show that such an act of self-sacrifice is not only morally good, but heroic. Therefore consequentialism is false!It’s a fun objection to consider, even if not necessarily persuasive. I think most would agree that Bob’s sacrifice is laudable regardless of outcome.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Hacker News (Newest).
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