Question: Is beauty based on cultural preference or mathematical proportions?
Answer: It is interesting when patients and people asked me about the philosophical theories behind beauty. I teach a course at DePaul University on the Science of Beauty, and beauty can be a complex topic. I have written quite a few articles, and currently, I am in the process writing a book on this. Ultimately, beauty is based on your own self-esteem. The better you feel, the more attractively you will present yourself to others. There are some natural definitions of beauty that seem to be cross-cultural and consistent in time and history. Such factors as facial symmetry, the averageness of the face, certain ratios of the facial features and of body ratios, and scientific indicators of youthfulness all seemed to present signs of beauty across cultural boundaries. However, there are many things that we can do to mimic these beauty markers in order to make a face more attractive. A plastic surgeon possesses the skills, talent, and knowledge to make a face more attractive can execute this transformation. However, it does not have any benefit unless the person actually feels more beautiful. The goal is to fix what bothers you, and if done, you will alter the way you feel about yourself. If you feel better about yourself, then you may stand taller. You may have better expressions. You may take better care of yourself both physically and aesthetically, and therefore, you will present a more attractive front. This is the key to being more beautiful. For further reference on this, please contact my office. I am happy to refer to you multiple articles I have written on the topic.
