Beyond the Surface: The Science Behind Attractiveness

Many are familiar with the adage “beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder” which conveys the subjective nature that attractiveness lends itself to. However, as social and sentient beings, the most important aspect in the art of being attractive is not appearance. From studies and analysis on the human body, one can conclude that attractiveness is more greatly dependent on one’s behaviors or thoughtful actions and the ways people spend their time together.

First, displaying acts of generosity may make the gift-giver appear more attractive in the receiver's eyes. In Elizabeth Yuko’s article “The Real Reasons You’re Attractive, According to Science,” she cites the associate professor of philanthropic studies, Dr. Sarah Korath, who elucidates that “‘[p]oets and philosophers have suggested a link between moral and physical beauty for centuries [...] [confirming] givers are seen as more attractive” (par. 9). Dr. Korath illustrates that giving gifts makes one appear morally righteous, a quality that causes other to gravitate towards them as well as places the giver in a positive light. The positive relationship associated with the gift-giver often shines into other aspects of attractiveness, such as appearance. Though external appearance may play a role in initial attractiveness, in many scenarios, thoughtful and generous actions can increase their perceived beauty, due to the positive feelings now established with the giver, indicating that gift-giving or other kind actions obtain potency over physical features. This conveys that genosity may overcome even an unremarkable appearance, hence playing a larger role in attractiveness. 

Secondly, the activities people partake in when they spend time together may also play a crucial role in the allure of an individual. According to a citation of Alicia A. Walf, a cognitive scientist and lecturer, she reveals that “‘[d]opamine release is associated with positive emotions and consolidating experiences that we have and that we enjoy, in memory, further propelling us to seek out these feelings in social interactions’” (par. 7). Dr. Walf conveys that by engaging in experiences that release dopamine, such as riding rollercoasters, eating delicious food, or shopping, this can subconsciously associate the positive emotions from the activity with the person. One may find someone more desirable and attractive due to the fact that they have many joyous, positive memories as well as the correlation between that person and the physical, internal response of joy: the secretion of dopamine. Consequently, people want to be close with this person, craving the same delight from the pleasurable activities, and overall increasing one’s attractiveness.  

This is not to say that outward looks does not contribute to one’s attractiveness. A stunning physical appearance is often the bait to first capture people’s attention and reel them in; however, without making a person feel valued or delighted, people may not stay. Without these positive actions, individuals may even be repelled or never have the will or confidence to interact with the gorgeous individual in the first place, and too much beauty could be an impetus for the alienation of that individual, as people may feel as if they are inherently different or “not good enough” to be close with the person, ultimately leading to isolation. 

Overall, it is difficult to define or quantify how attractive someone truly is as individual’s preferences are often shaped by the environment they were raised in and experiences that shape their perspective on others. Even so, from results from scientific studies and analysis, researchers can deduce that making one feel valued through the gift-giving or kind actions as well as generating a sense of euphoria by partaking in dopamine-releasing activities, an individual’s attractiveness and appeal will be far higher than what simply shows on the surface.