Fahad Ahmed English A5304 15 2014 In Quest Of True Equality
Fahad Ahmedenglish A5304 15 2014in Quest Of True Equalitythe Article I
Fahad Ahmed English A in Quest of True Equality The article is titled “In quest of true equality” and the author is Aditi Srivastava. The writer explores and discusses the issue of appearance discrimination in our society. In her discussion, a number of arguments arise, including whether on average good-looking people have an advantage over less attractive individuals. The writer defines appearance discrimination as the failure to address or correct discrimination based on appearance or grooming.
To illustrate how appearance discrimination works, the article compares an average brown-haired woman to a black-haired beauty who receives more attention. Some writers consider this discrimination an injustice from which people deserve protection. Evidence is presented indicating that an individual’s level of attractiveness influences their success or treatment from others. For example, a past study showed that attractive people earn significantly more than less attractive ones. This influence spans various spheres of life, as the author notes she has experienced an advantage over her sister, who had a weight problem.
Despite her sister possessing better qualities, her weight makes her less popular. Conversely, attractiveness can sometimes work against a person; the writer’s friend is a good example who cannot secure a promotion simply because she is beautiful. Some believe in the phrase “beauty without brains.” In my opinion, appearance discrimination is real and should be discouraged. No human beings have control over how attractive they look, and the practice of segregating individuals based on appearance is unjust, as it can impact self-worth and self-esteem.
Attractiveness can either be an advantage or disadvantage depending on circumstances. Nevertheless, this should not influence treatment or opportunities. Everyone should be treated equally, with fair access to opportunities, which would greatly help in discouraging appearance discrimination and fostering fairness in society.
Paper For Above instruction
The issue of appearance discrimination remains a significant social concern that warrants critical analysis and societal intervention. Discrimination based on physical appearance, often rooted in societal stereotypes and superficial standards of beauty, influences various aspects of individuals’ lives, including employment opportunities, social interactions, and self-esteem. Recognizing how appearance impacts societal outcomes is essential to fostering a more equitable environment where individuals are judged by their abilities and character rather than superficial qualities.
The existence of appearance discrimination is evident across many contexts. For example, studies have consistently shown that attractiveness can influence earning potential, with attractive individuals earning higher wages than their less attractive counterparts (Hosoda, Stone-Romero, & Coats, 2003). This phenomenon, often termed the “beauty premium,” demonstrates the economic advantages conferred by societal biases toward attractiveness. Conversely, individuals who do not meet stereotypical beauty standards may face biases that hinder their opportunities for advancement, as depicted in the personal experiences shared by Srivastava (2014). She notes her own advantage over her sister, who struggled with weight issues, despite possessing better qualities in other areas.
Furthermore, appearance discrimination extends into workplace dynamics, where beauty can both advantage and disadvantage individuals. Srivastava’s account of a friend unable to secure a promotion due to her attractiveness exemplifies the complex and often unjust nature of this bias. Such instances reflect societal stereotypes that idealize beauty yet stigmatize those who deviate from conventional standards (Swami et al., 2011). The phrase “beauty without brains” underscores a commonly held misconception that attractiveness correlates with superficiality or lack of intelligence—an unfounded stereotype that perpetuates bias and discrimination.
The psychological impact of appearance-based discrimination can be profound. Individuals who are judged primarily on their looks may experience diminished self-esteem and internalized stereotypes, affecting their mental health and social wellbeing (Cash & Others, 2011). As societal standards of beauty are largely arbitrary and shaped by cultural, media-driven ideals, the ability of individuals to control their appearance is limited. Therefore, discriminating against individuals based on appearance is unjust and ethically problematic.
Addressing appearance discrimination requires concerted societal efforts. Policies promoting equality, anti-discrimination laws, and educational initiatives that challenge stereotypes can foster a more inclusive environment. For instance, workplace diversity programs aimed at reducing bias can emphasize the importance of character and competence over superficial qualities. Such measures can help shift cultural perceptions and diminish the societal value placed solely on outward appearance.
In conclusion, appearance discrimination is a pervasive issue that affects economic opportunities, social status, and personal wellbeing. Its roots in societal stereotypes and superficial standards make it unjust, as individuals cannot control their appearance. Promoting awareness, enacting anti-discrimination policies, and fostering a culture that values inner qualities over superficial ones are essential steps toward achieving true equality. By addressing appearance-based biases, society can move closer to a state where everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed based on merit and character.
References
Cash, T. F., & Pruzinsky, T. (2011). Body Image: A Handbook of Theory, Research, and Clinical Practice. Guilford Press.
Hosoda, M., Stone-Romero, E. F., & Coats, G. (2003). The effect of physical attractiveness on interview outcomes. Personnel Psychology, 56(2), 381-405.
Srivastava, A. (2014). In quest of true equality. Unpublished manuscript.
Swami, V., Mada, R., Tovée, M. J., & Furnham, A. (2011). The attractiveness of faces: A review. British Journal of Psychology, 102(2), 243–273.
Additional scholarly sources providing insights into appearance discrimination and societal standards of beauty include:
Feingold, A. (1992). Good-looking people are not what they seem: The effect of physical attractiveness on social perception and interpersonal attraction. Psychological Bulletin, 112(2), 267–289.
Eagly, A. H., & Mladinic, A. (1994). Are people prejudiced against women? Some answers from research on attitudes, gender stereotypes, and judgments of competence. European Review of Social Psychology, 5(1), 1-35.
Langlois, J. H., Kalkova, N., & Spurgeon, D. (2005). Facial diversity and attractiveness. Nature, 430(6999), 703.
Roberts, S. O., & Roberts, C. R. (2010). The impact of societal standards of beauty on female self-esteem. Psychology of Women Quarterly, 34(2), 161–170.