In modern pedagogical anthropology the term ‘image’ is often used to describe definitions of ‘man’ and ‘music’ as results of our imagination. Generating images and concepts allows us to make reasonable didactic decisions, but it also reduces the complexity and plurality of the numerous meanings of the terms ‘man’ and ‘music’. This approach especially points out the problems caused by an unquestioned belief in these images: it emphasizes the importance of reflecting on scientific and presci- entific prejudices concerning the supposed ‘nature’, the ‘essence’ or the ‘substance’ of humanity as well as art. A knowledge of the plurality of ways in which former and contemporary authors thought and think about the relations between ‘man’ and ‘music’ is suggested as an important aim of music pedagogic research today.