The Psychology of Beauty   By: Ethel Dench Puffer Howes (1872-1950)

The Psychology of Beauty by Ethel Dench Puffer Howes is an insightful exploration into the complex relationship between human psychology and the concept of beauty. With a well-researched and thought-provoking approach, Howes delves into the multifaceted nature of beauty, presenting a comprehensive analysis that challenges conventional understanding.

From the very beginning, the author captivates her readers with a clear and engaging writing style. Howes skillfully combines historical anecdotes, philosophical insights, and empirical evidence to construct a compelling argument. She tackles the definition of beauty not merely as a superficial attribute but as a deeply ingrained aspect of human existence. Through her exploration, she emphasizes the subjective nature of beauty, acknowledging its cultural and individual variations.

One of the strengths of Howes' work lies in her ability to deconstruct societal preconceptions surrounding beauty. She dismantles the harmful societal standards that dictate what is considered beautiful and provides a refreshing perspective on the subject. Moreover, the author recognizes the detrimental impact of these rigid standards, as they often lead to body dissatisfaction, low self-esteem, and even mental health issues. Howes highlights the urgency to challenge these norms and foster a more inclusive and compassionate view of beauty.

The Psychology of Beauty is not merely a theoretical discussion; it provides practical applications as well. Howes offers valuable insights on how beauty can be leveraged within various domains, such as interpersonal relationships, education, and marketing. Her exploration of the role of beauty in forming human interactions is particularly enlightening, as it sheds light on the significance of visual perceptions in shaping initial impressions.

One of the book's few shortcomings lies in the breadth of topics covered. While it is commendable that Howes provides an extensive overview of the subject, this can also be overwhelming for readers seeking a more focused analysis. At times, the narrative feels slightly disjointed as the author switches between various subtopics within the field. Nonetheless, Howes manages to maintain a coherent thread throughout the book, ensuring that readers are able to follow her line of reasoning.

Overall, The Psychology of Beauty is an illuminating contribution to the study of human psychology and aesthetics. Ethel Dench Puffer Howes brings her expertise and passion to the page, providing readers with a comprehensive examination of beauty that challenges societal norms and encourages a more inclusive perception. Thought-provoking and informative, this book is essential reading for anyone interested in understanding the complex interplay between psychology and beauty.

First Page:

THE human being who thrills to the experience of beauty in nature and in art does not forever rest with that experience unquestioned. The day comes when he yearns to pierce the secret of his emotion, to discover what it is, and why, that has so stung him to defend and to justify his transport to himself and to others. He seeks a reason for the faith that is in him. And so have arisen the speculative theories of the nature of beauty, on the one hand, and the studies of concrete beauty and our feelings about it, on the other. Speculative theory has taken its own way, however, as a part of philosophy, in relating the Beautiful to the other great concepts of the True and the Good; building up an architectonic of abstract ideas, far from the immediate facts and problems of the enjoyment of beauty. There has grown up, on the other hand, in the last years, a great literature of special studies in the facts of aesthetic production and enjoyment. Experiments with the aesthetic elements; investigations into the physiological psychology of aesthetic reactions; studies in the genesis and development of art forms, have multiplied apace. But these are still mere groups of facts for psychology; they have not been taken up into a single authoritative principle... Continue reading book >>