Physical attractiveness is a catch-all term for a set of bodily characteristics that are considered desirable in a potential mate.
The most studied characteristics underpinning physical attractiveness are shown below.
Such characteristics are perceived as attractive the world over, with some of them being valued more than others depending on the culture. For instance, East Asians place a high value on neoteny, whereas Western populations place a high value on youth.
Because some people prefer brunettes while others prefer blondes, a lay person may argue that physical attractiveness is subjective. Indeed: a preference for blondes over brunettes is certainly a subjective evaluation.
However, physical attractiveness is objective in the sense that neither blondes nor brunettes are equally desirable. There are attractive as well as unattractive individuals within these two populations.
What determines their level of physical attractiveness is a general factor. Minor characteristics such as hair color are specific. Particularities are subjective.
The most studied characteristics underpinning physical attractiveness are shown below.
Such characteristics are perceived as attractive the world over, with some of them being valued more than others depending on the culture. For instance, East Asians place a high value on neoteny, whereas Western populations place a high value on youth.
Because some people prefer brunettes while others prefer blondes, a lay person may argue that physical attractiveness is subjective. Indeed: a preference for blondes over brunettes is certainly a subjective evaluation.
However, physical attractiveness is objective in the sense that neither blondes nor brunettes are equally desirable. There are attractive as well as unattractive individuals within these two populations.
What determines their level of physical attractiveness is a general factor. Minor characteristics such as hair color are specific. Particularities are subjective.
