Understanding Beauty | How We See and Value Attractiveness

[Anderson]

Beauty, my dear friends, lies in the eyes of the beholder. This is an old truth, but the challenge is that eyes change, and beholders vary. When we talk about biological factors of beauty, these often contradict what is fashionable or popular. As symmetrical animals, humans tend to find major disproportions in body structure unattractive. This is why many people who have undergone plastic surgery to alter their features and unintentionally introduced asymmetry often end up dissatisfied. On the flip side, absolute symmetry is rarely seen in nature and can even evoke suspicion.

Studies have shown that our perception of faces is nuanced. When people are shown a natural face versus a face artificially constructed from two symmetrical halves, they tend to choose the natural one, even if the difference isn't immediately obvious. This preference reflects our inherent inclination toward natural beauty. Similarly, in terms of reproduction, proportion plays a crucial role. Concepts like the golden ratio and other symmetrical ideals align with what we subconsciously perceive as beautiful on a biological level.

For instance, men are naturally drawn to women with wide hips and larger thighs because these traits suggest fertility and the ability to bear healthy offspring. Conversely, women often find men with broad shoulders and narrower hips attractive. These patterns are deeply rooted in our biology and influence how we perceive beauty at a subconscious level.

But beauty is not just biology - it is shaped by culture, trends, and status. Cultural variations in beauty standards are immense. Consider the women with elongated necks adorned with rings or those with stretched earlobes; these are cultural symbols of beauty. In Europe, ideals have swung from valuing fullness and voluptuousness to celebrating extreme slenderness and pale skin. At one point, being pregnant was considered attractive, so much so that women would wear artificial bellies to mimic pregnancy.

Other studies suggest that women with larger eyes and softer facial features are seen as more feminine and attractive, while men are generally perceived as more masculine if they have deeper-set eyes and bushier brows. Even facial hair preferences shift with time and culture. In the Soviet Union, beards were often seen as strange, while today, the popularity of barbershops and beard styles has made facial hair more appealing.

Fashion also plays a significant role in defining beauty. Brands like Calvin Klein popularized the trend of extremely thin models, which has contributed to a surge in eating disorders like anorexia. On the other hand, societies with high-calorie diets have found it harder to maintain such ideals. In places where food scarcity is common, like North Korea, being overweight is seen as a sign of wealth and health, making it attractive.

Social status further influences beauty standards, especially for men. Higher status often translates into greater attractiveness, as it suggests better chances of survival and success. Fashion and brands also serve as status symbols, displaying wealth and exclusivity.

Artistic beauty transcends cultural and biological factors. When we admire intricate paintings or grand cathedrals, we are drawn to the sheer effort and resources that went into creating them. The value of manual work, the time, and the calories spent are perceived as beautiful because they reflect dedication and skill. This concept is still relevant in fashion and design, where handmade or intricately crafted items often hold more allure than mass-produced ones.

However, as modern art has evolved, it often challenges traditional concepts of beauty, requiring artists to constantly innovate to capture attention. This has led to the rise of unconventional styles and brands, where originality and the ability to surprise hold greater value than sheer aesthetic beauty.

In the end, beauty also involves the desire to stand out and be different. This is why we see bold hairstyles, vibrant hair colors, and other extravagant expressions of individuality. While these may not conform to traditional standards of beauty, they capture attention and offer a form of self-expression that some find appealing.

Talking about beauty is inherently complex and sometimes feels like a never-ending loop. We deceive ourselves by constantly chasing after evolving ideals, but in truth, real beauty lies in what makes us happy. Novelty may catch our eye initially, but long-term relationships often thrive on familiarity and shared values. Studies have shown that people are happier in relationships with partners who are seen as equally attractive, suggesting that similarity in perceived beauty helps sustain long-term connections.

Ultimately, the most valuable aspect of beauty in relationships is not the physical form but the emotional connection. The warmth, understanding, and support that partners provide are what make them truly beautiful in our eyes. No amount of external enhancement—whether it’s plastic surgery or fashionable attire—can substitute for genuine affection and mutual respect.

Thoughts on this

The notion of beauty is profoundly subjective and influenced by countless factors, from biology and culture to personal experiences and societal expectations. This fluidity can be liberating but also overwhelming, especially when beauty standards feel unattainable. It’s crucial to remember that beauty, in its most authentic form, is about finding what resonates with you and brings you joy. Whether it's in relationships, art, or personal style, the most beautiful things are those that align with our true selves and make us feel fulfilled.