The idea that certain physical features must be in certain proportions for one to be attributed as beautiful is clouded by either sexual reasons or the societal norm that has been ingrained. For instance, having a pointed nose, high cheekbones, full lips, and other “endowments” around the human body are often considered the markers of beauty. However, this socially constructed idea taints the perception of those who are found “lacking” in these areas and can lead to the growth of insecurity and feelings of “ugliness.”

Beauty, in and of itself, is not a socially constructed idea until a certain amount of value is attached to it. The objective meaning of beauty has become different from the socially accepted definition of beauty.

That being said, how would you define “beauty”? As we established in previous paragraphs, beauty cannot be quantified or qualified. What may seem pleasing to one’s eye may not be so to another. This statement is generally agreed upon, except in times when the minority is greatly outnumbered, and it becomes the norm because “the majority takes the vote.” Just because the majority does something does not mean it is right, acceptable, or just.

Complete beauty should not be measured solely by physical qualities but also by psychological characteristics and personality. Feeling the presence of something or someone that can be counted as beautiful can heighten a range of emotions such as fascination, awe, and admiration. Although the qualities of beauty may not be fully owned by a person, areas in which an individual is beautiful should be appreciated.

Beauty is an idea that has been socially constructed over time, shaped by cultural norms, media representations, and individual experiences. It is an elusive concept that is subjective and ever-changing, making it difficult to define and understand. Nevertheless, the notion of beauty plays a significant role in how we view ourselves and others, influencing our behaviors, attitudes, and beliefs.

The construction of beauty has varied across different societies and historical periods. What is considered beautiful in one culture may not be seen as such in another. For instance, in Western societies, thinness is often associated with beauty, whereas in some African cultures, fullness and curves are seen as desirable. In traditional Japanese culture, a pale complexion was viewed as beautiful, whereas in modern times, tanned skin is often preferred.

The media also plays a significant role in shaping our ideas of beauty. Advertisements, movies, TV shows, and social media platforms often feature images of individuals who conform to a particular standard of beauty, portraying them as desirable and successful. This has led to the creation of a beauty industry that is worth billions of dollars, with products and services that promise to enhance one’s physical appearance and make them more attractive.

The impact of these media representations is profound, as it can influence the way we perceive ourselves and others. Research has shown that exposure to images of thin, conventionally attractive models and celebrities can lead to lower self-esteem, body dissatisfaction, and disordered eating behaviors, particularly among young women. This highlights the negative consequences of the unrealistic beauty standards perpetuated by the media, and the need for greater diversity and representation in the images we see.

Individual experiences and interactions also shape our ideas of beauty.

 What one person finds beautiful may not be the same for another. This is because beauty is not solely based on physical appearance but can also encompass personality traits, values, and behaviors. For example, someone may find kindness, intelligence, or humor to be attractive qualities in a person, which may not necessarily be reflected in their physical appearance.

Moreover, our ideas of beauty can change over time, influenced by our experiences and personal growth. As we age, our perspective on beauty may shift, and we may come to appreciate qualities that were not valued before. Similarly, as we become more exposed to different cultures and viewpoints, our definition of beauty may broaden, allowing us to appreciate a more diverse range of physical features and attributes.

Overall, beauty is a complex and multifaceted concept that is deeply rooted in culture, society, and individual experiences. It is important to recognize the subjective nature of beauty and to embrace diversity and representation in our understanding of it.