In the past, there have been a number of different concepts of beauty. A variety of people have discussed it in various contexts, but a true definition of the concept remains ambiguous. While the oh-so-famous Kardashian-esque beauty definition certainly makes headlines, it is not the only example.
The first is the classical conception of beauty. The notion of beauty in the classical sense consists of the arrangement of integral parts into a coherent whole. It is embodied in classical architecture and classical music.
For many, the notion of beauty is more than a visual experience. It is a mental, emotional, and spiritual experience. When it comes to aesthetics, it is important to consider the subjective and the objective aspects of any design project. Among the most important criteria for the evaluation of beauty are symmetry, proportion, and clarity. Several studies have found that these factors have a synergistic relationship.
One of the best examples of this is the famous Mont Saint-Victoire painting by Paul Cezanne. A photograph of the same spot is also a worthy candidate for the beauty award.
During the Renaissance period, plumpness was considered to be a sign of wealth. Today, however, a person’s weight is often a matter of personal preference. Similarly, a work of architectural art can be a highway or a bridge. Likewise, the same object can be perceived as red, yellow, or blue at different times of the day.
Another oft-cited example is the sun. Though it is not necessarily beautiful, the idea that it has some special powers has gotten its fair share of attention. Indeed, one can say that a “beautiful” sunrise is not necessarily the same as a colorful sunset, especially in the era of climate change.
Beauty is an important part of a successful business and a critical part of the workplace culture. It is one of the perks that come with a high-paying job, and it helps to keep employees happy. But in the age of social media, the definition of beauty has become more subjective and less tangible.
One of the most interesting aspects of the industry is the way it speaks to a broader group of consumers. Unlike fashion, where the consumer base is usually female, the beauty industry speaks to a more cosmopolitan audience. This is reflected in the diversity of the media used to promote it. Typical magazines focus on the female form with metallic type, feminine silhouettes, and a sanitized version of femininity.
Other notable elements are a new platform that seeks to elevate art and self-expression over fashion. In addition, companies like Patagonia have taken an asymmetrical approach, attracting creative talent and a strong sense of purpose. These examples illustrate how the modern day beauty industry is a hybrid of the old and the new.
The best of all worlds may be the truest of all. Perhaps it is time to reconsider the definition of beauty and what it means to us.