The Biology of Beauty: The Science behind Human Attractiveness
This thought-provoking book examines the science behind human attractiveness—the ratios, proportions, and other factors that to a large extent dictate what we find "beautiful."

It's said that "beauty is in the eye of the beholder," but recent scientific research suggests that human attractiveness is much more objective than we once thought, deeply rooted in our biology and evolutionary history. For instance, facial symmetry is considered extremely attractive because it indicates good health and nutrition during the formative developmental years. This book explores these insights.

Part I of The Biology of Beauty: The Science behind Human Attractiveness takes a closer look at what traits we find the most alluring and why. It discusses why attractiveness is important from an evolutionary standpoint and the advantages (and disadvantages) of being attractive. In addition to exploring these beauty "universals," it examines how beauty ideals can be shaped by factors such as culture, religion, and the media. Part II provides an in-depth analysis of individual features that contribute to attractiveness, offering scientific explanations for our preferences. The book also includes a collection of insightful sidebars that highlight beauty ideals in different parts of the world and at other times in history.

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The Biology of Beauty: The Science behind Human Attractiveness
This thought-provoking book examines the science behind human attractiveness—the ratios, proportions, and other factors that to a large extent dictate what we find "beautiful."

It's said that "beauty is in the eye of the beholder," but recent scientific research suggests that human attractiveness is much more objective than we once thought, deeply rooted in our biology and evolutionary history. For instance, facial symmetry is considered extremely attractive because it indicates good health and nutrition during the formative developmental years. This book explores these insights.

Part I of The Biology of Beauty: The Science behind Human Attractiveness takes a closer look at what traits we find the most alluring and why. It discusses why attractiveness is important from an evolutionary standpoint and the advantages (and disadvantages) of being attractive. In addition to exploring these beauty "universals," it examines how beauty ideals can be shaped by factors such as culture, religion, and the media. Part II provides an in-depth analysis of individual features that contribute to attractiveness, offering scientific explanations for our preferences. The book also includes a collection of insightful sidebars that highlight beauty ideals in different parts of the world and at other times in history.

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The Biology of Beauty: The Science behind Human Attractiveness

The Biology of Beauty: The Science behind Human Attractiveness

by Rachelle M. Smith
The Biology of Beauty: The Science behind Human Attractiveness

The Biology of Beauty: The Science behind Human Attractiveness

by Rachelle M. Smith

Hardcover

$67.00 
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Overview

This thought-provoking book examines the science behind human attractiveness—the ratios, proportions, and other factors that to a large extent dictate what we find "beautiful."

It's said that "beauty is in the eye of the beholder," but recent scientific research suggests that human attractiveness is much more objective than we once thought, deeply rooted in our biology and evolutionary history. For instance, facial symmetry is considered extremely attractive because it indicates good health and nutrition during the formative developmental years. This book explores these insights.

Part I of The Biology of Beauty: The Science behind Human Attractiveness takes a closer look at what traits we find the most alluring and why. It discusses why attractiveness is important from an evolutionary standpoint and the advantages (and disadvantages) of being attractive. In addition to exploring these beauty "universals," it examines how beauty ideals can be shaped by factors such as culture, religion, and the media. Part II provides an in-depth analysis of individual features that contribute to attractiveness, offering scientific explanations for our preferences. The book also includes a collection of insightful sidebars that highlight beauty ideals in different parts of the world and at other times in history.


Product Details

ISBN-13: 9781440849886
Publisher: Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date: 06/08/2018
Pages: 280
Product dimensions: 6.14(w) x 9.21(h) x 0.69(d)

About the Author

Rachelle M. Smith, PhD, is associate professor of psychology and chair of social sciences at Husson University.

Table of Contents

Preface vii

Part I Understanding Beauty 1

1 Defining Beauty 3

2 The Benefits of Beauty 31

3 Buying Beauty 53

4 Changes in Beauty Trends over Time 81

5 Evolution's Impact on Modern Attraction: The Interaction of Genes and Environment 97

6 The Impact of Attractiveness on Behavior and Relationship Satisfaction 117

7 Psychological Effects of the Preoccupation with Beauty 141

Part II Beauty from Head to Toe 165

Head, Facial, and Body Hair 165

Skin 176

Face Shape and Structure 183

Eyes 189

Nose 194

Ears 195

Lips 197

Teeth 200

Hands 203

Body Shape and Proportions 204

Breasts and Buttocks 215

Muscularity 217

Inguinal Crease 218

Male Genitalia 218

Feet 219

Hormonal Influences on Attraction 221

Psychological Traits 231

Glossary 233

References and Further Reading 241

Index 253

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