The IMPACT of Geographic, Ethnic and Demographic Dynamics on the Perception of Beauty
Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder, but, influenced by the individual's
geographic, ethnic and demographic background and characteristics. In plastic
surgery, objective measurements are used as a foundation for aesthetic evaluations.
This study assumes interdependence between variables such as country of residence,
gender, age, occupation and aesthetic perception.
Methods/Technique:
Computerized images of a model's face were generated with the ability to
alter nasal characteristics and the projection of the lips and chin. A survey containing
these modifiable images was sent to over thirteen thousand plastic surgeons and lay
people in 50 different countries, who were able to virtually create a face which they felt
to be the aesthetically "ideal" and most pleasing. Demographic information about the
interviewees was obtained.
Results/Complications:
Values of various aesthetic parameters of the nose were described along with
their relationship to geography, demography and occupation of the respondents. Interregional
and ethnic comparison revealed that variables of country of residence,
ethnicity, occupation (general public vs. surgeon) and gender correlate along a threeway
dimension with the ideal projection of the lips and the chin. Significant interaction
effects were found between variables of country of residence or ethnicity with
occupation and gender of the respondents.
Conclusion:
What are considered the "ideal " aesthetics of the face are highly
dependent on the individual's cultural and ethnic background and cannot simply and
solely be defined by numeric values and divine proportions. As confirmed with this
study ethnic, demographic and occupational factors impact peoples' perception of
beauty significantly.