Cognitive functions of aesthetic emotions

The paper introduces a scientific definition of "aesthetic" emotions compatible with known working of the mind. These are emotions related to knowledge and to satisfaction of instinct for knowledge. Cognitive and mathematical model arguments are presented that aesthetic emotions motivate us to acquire and improve knowledge. Near the top of the mental hierarchy they are experienced as the beautiful. Contradictions in knowledge experienced as emotions of cognitive dissonances interfere with acquiring knowledge. Overcoming cognitive dissonances is necessary for accumulating knowledge and sustaining human evolution. A multiplicity of aesthetic emotions required for overcoming cognitive dissonances are created by music; this is the evolutionary purpose of musical ability.