Friday, September 11, 2009

Attractiveness: is it really universal, do the blind 'see' it the same way?

I had a recent thought: do blind people (from birth) 'see' attractiveness in others the same as those with sight? I realize that they can use their hands, and their senses are heightened, but is it the same?

Scientists (from the various science shows I watch), talk about attractiveness can be measured. There is a literal measurement, shape and proportion to a persons face that will make them more universally attractive or unattractive. This is something that our subconscious apparently uses to tell us a good mate or not. Those people with very symmetrical features are rated higher in attractiveness than those without symmetry. There is a model, Linda Evangelista I believe, who's face is so perfect, she is (her face) is literally the most perfect, and universally attractive person found yet. While I am sure there may be more, I mean, she did have a family, and I'm guessing her traits weren't completely unique to just her, but she is the one in the public eye, and most easily observed.

So... that lends me to wonder: do/ would a blind person see her the same as these scientists? Does sight dominate this opinion or is it inherent and touch would reveal the same results?

Is there a study on this, there should be, I find this fascinating.

Here's a recent news report talking about something similar: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/magazine/8069993.stm

So, yes, the blind are as shallow as the rest of us, well they can be, but do they physically feel the attractiveness that the sighted see?

May be following up with a little study of my own.

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