Your school is running a campaign titled "Look Beyond Looks" to raise awareness about appearance-related bias. As part of this campaign, you have been asked to write an article for the school magazine.

Write an article on the topic
"Do Looks Really Matter in Today's Society?"
 

Do Looks Really Matter in Today’s Society?
By: Said Saddiq

"Don’t judge a book by its cover", a timeless adage we often hear but frequently overlook. In today’s world, physical appearance plays an undeniably significant role in shaping how individuals are perceived. Teenagers, in particular, experience immense pressure to conform to societal beauty ideals. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that while appearance may influence certain situations, it should never be the sole determinant of a person’s worth.

To begin with, physical appearance undeniably affects the formation of first impressions. In professional settings, and even in casual interactions, individuals with an aesthetically pleasing appearance are often perceived as more charismatic or competent. For instance, a well-dressed candidate may be favored for a position over someone equally qualified but less polished. Therefore, judging someone solely by their appearance can lead to missed opportunities for genuine talent to shine.

Moreover, appearance-related bias can lead to grossly inequitable treatment. Those who deviate from beauty standards often encounter unfair stereotyping. For example, a student who is considered "overweight" may unjustly face exclusion or be labelled as lethargic. Such prejudices can lower self-esteem and prevent individuals from seizing opportunities based purely on external attributes. Clearly, prejudice rooted in appearance can have consequences on one’s mental health.

Ultimately, it is important to understand that inner qualities matter more than short-term physical appearance. Traits like kindness, intelligence, and hard work are the true foundation of long-term success. For example, a student who may not be considered attractive but excels in studies and treats people with respect will naturally gain admiration and trust. These are the things that go beyond how someone looks.

In conclusion, while external appearance may influence certain aspects of life, it should never overshadow the value of one’s inner essence. True significance lies in who we are, not how we look.

(297 Words)

Your school is running a campaign titled "Look Beyond Looks" to raise awareness about appearance-related bias. As part of this campaign, you have been asked to write an article for the school magazine.

Write an article on the topic
"Do Looks Really Matter in Today's Society?"
 

Do Looks Really Matter in Today’s Society?
By: Said Saddiq

"Don’t judge a book by its cover", a timeless adage we often hear but frequently overlook. In today’s world, physical appearance plays an undeniably significant role in shaping how individuals are perceived. Teenagers, in particular, experience immense pressure to conform to societal beauty ideals. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that while appearance may influence certain situations, it should never be the sole determinant of a person’s worth.

To begin with, physical appearance undeniably affects the formation of first impressions. In professional settings, and even in casual interactions, individuals with an aesthetically pleasing appearance are often perceived as more charismatic or competent. For instance, a well-dressed candidate may be favored for a position over someone equally qualified but less polished. Therefore, judging someone solely by their appearance can lead to missed opportunities for genuine talent to shine.

Moreover, appearance-related bias can lead to grossly inequitable treatment. Those who deviate from beauty standards often encounter unfair stereotyping. For example, a student who is considered "overweight" may unjustly face exclusion or be labelled as lethargic. Such prejudices can lower self-esteem and prevent individuals from seizing opportunities based purely on external attributes. Clearly, prejudice rooted in appearance can have consequences on one’s mental health.

Ultimately, it is important to understand that inner qualities matter more than short-term physical appearance. Traits like kindness, intelligence, and hard work are the true foundation of long-term success. For example, a student who may not be considered attractive but excels in studies and treats people with respect will naturally gain admiration and trust. These are the things that go beyond how someone looks.

In conclusion, while external appearance may influence certain aspects of life, it should never overshadow the value of one’s inner essence. True significance lies in who we are, not how we look.

(297 Words)