Reviews the political controversy regarding the National Endowment for the Arts and the relationship of art to human existence. Argues that art is an essential aspect of the human spirit. Proposes a definition of art as human activity that illuminates the universal qualities of a particular action or experience. (CFR)

Contends that design basics are fundamental for anyone who has worked in art education for some time; yet, there is disagreement about basic design results. Discusses the history of design and design education. Asserts that the question art educators face is whether to continue what began as a form of moral control over artwork. (CFR)