In response to Mariah’s question, “If beauty is really in the eye of the beholder, why do you think that people go to such extremities to modify themselves?”

I believe the main reason why so many go to such extremes to modify themselves into something that they think is beautiful is due to the pressure from the media and their social environment. No matter where you go there are always advertisements for the next new beauty treatment such as new make-up that’s actually good for your skin, new pimple treatments, anti-aging treatments, ways to straighten and whiten your teeth, etc. etc. etc. Even in the work environment there is pressure to be beautiful. Many times people who are viewed as more beautiful even if they are less qualified are hired over the person viewed as less beautiful. These pressures not only apply to women but also to men to be handsome. Hygiene and physical weight (which are both a part of appearance) are also big factors. You wouldn’t believe how many times  at my work comments have been made about other employees or customers such as, “it’s called a toothbrush and toothpaste”, “some water and soap would be nice”, “does so and so know how to use a brush with their hair?”, etc. etc. We have been taught through the media and for most of us our parents since the day we were born anyone who smells, is dirty, has crooked, dirty, smelling teeth (if they even still have teeth), dirty clothes or torn clothes, messy hair, etc. is gross and thus they are ugly.   

Question:

Although hygiene is very important do you think it is right to discriminate people in the workforce based on beauty instead of qualifications??