Symmetry and You

Here’s a link to an article I’ve been looking for for a long time. It’s a little lengthy – and old (1996) - but it’s one of the most fascinating articles I’ve ever read. There was also a documentary on TLC a few years ago that dealt with the same studies that are cited in this article.

http://hss.fullerton.edu/sociology/orleans/symmetry.txt

Basically, scientists believe that a preference for certain physical traits is inborn in all humans. The findings show that facial beauty is determined by how symmetrical a person’s face is (Denzel Washington’s is almost perfectly symmetrical). Not only that, but people with symmetrical bodies are more likely to be more athletic, more dominant in personality, and on average start having sex earlier than those who aren’t symmetrical.

It also explains men’s overall preference for curvy, physically fit women rather than super-skinny or obese women and brings up a couple of very interesting findings: Women have more orgasms with symmetrical men, and symmetrical men (but not women!) are more likely to cheat on their partners than asymmetrical ones.

What do you think about this article? How does a person determine whether or not they are symmetrical?

Personally, it alleviates a lot of guilt on my part for placing such a high emphasis on physical attractiveness, since apparently this “beautylust” has occurred in every society in the world during every era in history and is basically human nature.

Jam it back in, in the dark.

According to the article, humans detect symmetry and don't even realize they're doing it.

Did you even read the article? We're talking numerous studies - even studies involving infants - and the results are all the same.

There's nowhere I can't reach.

I didn't say "perfect." That phrase wasn't used anywhere in the article, either.

I absolutely believe this is true. It would explain a lot, actually.

Also, I do believe that you can raise a child's IQ by having him listen to classical music. Children who listen to classical music and/or play musical instruments have accelerated development in the math and science parts of their brains.

This thing is sticky, and I don't like it. I don't appreciate it.

Originally Posted by Sassafrass

America is America. I chose to not believe it. I mean, maybe its me, but I don't really LIKE beauty? Kinda gives me a HEADACHE?

And, I mean, do you really think Denzel is hot? Because I REALLY DONT.

These were worldwide studies, not just American ones, and yes, Denzel is hot. His level of hotness is illegal in 29 states.

I am a dolphin, do you want me on your body?

Wow. Even his zits are symmetrical.

I think the implication is that people who are naturally more symmetrical - as opposed to a computer-generated photo of a geek with bad skin - are usually more fit, athletic and generally are better-looking.

I was speaking idiomatically.

Originally Posted by Elcee

Regardlessly, this is a good find and an interesting read, Alice. Also see 'Golden Ratio', if you haven't already. It's extremely relative. Then maybe Chaos Theory if you have the time. No, maybe Quantum Mechanics before that.

In all honesty, I may not be up for reading that stuff what with my pedicure appointment at four. Also, I wouldn't want anything to interfere with Desperate Housewives.

What kind of toxic man-thing is happening now?

Originally Posted by Gechmir

I don't see the validity.

Symmies have sex earlier? I wouldn't blame twelve year old sex and pegnancies on symmetry. I'd blame the child's family and the upbringing. I also fail to see how it can possibly effect personality.

Symmetry is perfection. And nothing is perfect in nature.

I'm quite sure this article wasn't a stealthy attempt on the part of the morally loose liberals to push their evil agendas onto impressionable 12-year-olds. Relax.

The point is that more attractive (symmetrical) people CAN start having sex earlier since other people...you know...want to have sex with them.

FELIPE NO

I gathered (although the article didn't really say this) that you only notice symmetry subconsciously. I don't think you can really look at a person and determine whether or not their face is symmetrical.

Double Post:
This is hilarious. My daughter made these for me in Photoshop. This first picture is the original (unphotoshopped) picture.



Here's one using only the right side of my face:


And here's one using only the left side of my face:


This is pretty hilarious. I hope more people do this. Anyway, apparently I'm not one of the "beautiful people." Damn you and your symmetry, Denzel!

What, you don't want my bikini-clad body?