Attractiveness

Attractiveness refers to qualities that make a person or object appealing and desirable. In humans, it encompasses physical appearance, behavior, and other attributes that elicit positive evaluation and approach in social or romantic contexts. It is studied across psychology, sociology, and anthropology.

Physical attractiveness commonly refers to facial and bodily features rated as appealing. Research links symmetry, averageness, and certain sex-dimorphic cues to attractiveness. These cues may signal health or fertility in evolutionary accounts, but cultural variation and personal taste strongly modulate judgments.

Non-physical factors such as warmth, competence, confidence, and status influence perceived attractiveness. Interpersonal attraction also depends on similarity, proximity, and shared values, as well as context and timing.

Measurement and bias: Attractiveness is typically rated on scales or with manipulated stimuli. It can produce halo effects, shaping judgments of intelligence, trustworthiness, or likability, and affecting real-world outcomes in dating, hiring, and social interactions.

Cultural and contextual variation: Standards of attractiveness vary across cultures and change over time. Global media can influence ideals, but local norms and individual differences remain important.

Social implications and ethics: Emphasis on attractiveness can affect body image, self-esteem, and discrimination. Critical media literacy and ethical considerations about cosmetic practices are important. Related topics include body image, the halo effect, and beauty standards.