Beauty is in the eye of the beholder

I thought one of the most interesting sections in Chapter 11 was how different societies view beauty. The ideal woman in the western hemisphere differs greatly from the ideal woman in Asia. However, according to the social role theory, biological variables play a role in both men's and women's preferences. Men are traditionally viewed as bigger, stronger, and sources of financial stability whereas women are viewed as providers for children. Although these roles are traditional and seen consistently across many different cultures there are still many differences as to what is "attractive". In the Kayan tribes of Thailand, women beginning at age five deliberately lengthen their necks in order to have a higher level of attractiveness. This lengthening process is done by putting brass rings around the neck, which suppresses the collarbone, shoulders, and rib cage in order to obtain a longer neck. This practice certainly would not be viewed as attractive in women of the western hemisphere, but rather extreme. However, the use of implants, hair extensions and diets by women in the United States may seem rather extreme to other cultures as well. So who can judge upon physical attractiveness and what should be done in order to become attractive? I truly believe that beauty is in the eyes of the beholder.