Huxley, Caroline J. (2008) Review of Evolutionary models : the psychology of physical attraction, Swami, V. and Furnham, A. Psychologist, Vol.21 (No.7). p. 605. ISSN 0952-8229

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Abstract

Why are we attracted to particular people? The Psychology of Physical Attraction uses evolutionary and social psychological perspectives in trying to answer this question. The book begins with a basic introduction to Darwinian theory, and then leads the reader through an evolutionary explanation as to why certain physical features are cross-culturally considered attractive. The authors then discuss social factors and contexts in relationship formation. The authors are keen to stress the importance of studying appearance, citing the social benefits of being considered attractive and potential discrimination faced by those who are not. Like the majority of research into physical appearance, much of the focus is on women’s bodies in terms of what is considered attractive to men (although the authors do acknowledge the increasing salience of men’s appearance). Readers predominantly interested in the social aspect should be aware that primacy is given to the evolutionary explanations. Written in a very accessible style, the book is a good overview of the research in the area, and would be useful for anyone with an interest in beauty, appearance ideals and relationship formation.

Item Type:	Book Review
Subjects:	R Medicine > R Medicine (General)
Divisions:	Faculty of Medicine > Warwick Medical School > Metabolic and Vascular Health Faculty of Medicine > Warwick Medical School
Journal or Publication Title:	Psychologist
Publisher:	The British Psychological Society
ISSN:	0952-8229
Book Title:	Evolutionary models : the psychology of physical attraction
Date:	2008
Volume:	Vol.21
Number:	No.7
Page Range:	p. 605
Publication Status:	Published
URI:	http://wrap.warwick.ac.uk/id/eprint/49020

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