STEREOTYPES: APPEARANCE EDITION

What does appearance mean? The official definition of appearance is outward or visible aspect of a person or thing. Even though the definition states it is only the outward or visible aspect of a person, it is constantly being used to determine someone’s character, morals, etc. This made me wonder, “Why does something we can’t control define who we are in world?” I have been very sympathetic towards people who have fallen a victim of this and understand what they are going through. As a child, I use to get teased about my weight, size, and the way I dressed. I have been stereotyped many times and now I wonder why. Why are people in societies constantly being stereotyped in world every day? What are the stereotypes and why? WHAT MAKES STEREOTYPING RIGHT? I hope this paper will bring you as many answers as I received.

“Society no longer sees a homogenous race living in isolation, except for some closed societies. People are traveling and working overseas, some will settle in the host country and become citizens, and inter-racial marriages are also becoming the norm. We are slowly, but surely becoming as one.”
~Rachel Faye~ As our society grows, appearance is becoming very important. If you don’t dress in name brand clothes, you are considered “lame” when it comes to teens; if you don’t wear a suit to a job interview, you are usually not considered for the position. The only question I have is who came up with these rules of society? These rules that you cannot wear certain thing at certain times, such as no white after labor day or being “tacky” when going out in public, if it is your style, why not? This world has become a very stereotypical place and has come to a point where you cannot be yourself without being judged for not conforming to the crowds.
I recently read, in an article, the 10 reasons one needs to look good. I had never seen or read anything as strict or as frank about what the world has come to. The article stated:
Why One Needs to Look Good? * To impress people in social situations. * To look one’s best in work place, where one deals with the public. For example, film stars have to look gorgeous and handsome. * One feels good if one looks good. * A physically attractive person attracts a lot of people. * It helps in building up relationships. A handsome boy attracts a lot of girls. Similarly, even girls, who are beautiful, are much sought after. * Physical appearance does matter in a relationship. In a marriage, the partners need to take care of themselves physically in order to sustain their relationship. Many women face marital problems as they go out of shape after having children. Those women who take care of their physical appearance have better rapport with their partner. * It boosts self-confidence and self-esteem. One feels very reassured when other people admire them and prefer to associate with them as they find them very attractive. In certain professions looks make a lot of difference. A model has to look his or best. A good looking salesperson can get noticed quickly. * A pleasing face is nice to look at. People like to relax in the presence of beautiful things. A pleasant face can relax the mind. Those with an aesthetic sense like to admire beautiful people and things. * An attractive physical appearance enhances personality. It is an added advantage.
“A physically attractive person, who is well-groomed, can impress upon people. A handsome man or beautiful woman is much admired in society.”
Although I totally disagree with this article, I cannot say it is not true within our shallow civilization. We build impressions and create stereotypes each and every day off of appearance, sometimes even subconsciously because it has become so common. If you see a homeless person (bum) on the streets begging for money, what do you immediately think? You probably think something like, “they are on drugs” or