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This topic explores how the body influences the concept of self and self-identity, drawing on Anthony Giddens' ideas. Three key aspects are highlighted: bodily appearance, demeanor, and sensuality. Bodily appearance involves how others perceive one's physical attributes, clothing, and decorations, influenced by cultural, social, and legal factors. Demeanor refers to behavior in specific settings, shaped by social expectations. Sensuality refers to consistency in sensory experiences under certain circumstances. This extends to the impact of appearance on deviance, as explained by Schaefer. Social expectations of beauty can affect career advancement, with physically attractive individuals having higher chances of employment. Schaefer emphasizes the interpretative nature of physical deviance, citing cultural variations in beauty standards. The example of tattoos illustrates how perceptions differ between executive settings and metal rock bands.
Russel W. Belk
Russel W. Belk
Russel W. Belk (1988) argues that the self extends beyond the body and mind to include possessions, relationships, and various external elements. Belk emphasizes that possessions play a crucial role in shaping one's sense of self and losing them can have emotional consequences. The extended self encompasses not only material objects but also people, places, and group possessions. The topic then shifts to the impact of culture on body image and self-esteem. Drawing on the work of Anderson-Fye (1998), it explores four anthropological areas related to human appearance: diversity of physical appearance, cultural art practices, beauty ideals, and collective identity through appearance. Cultural variations in beauty standards are illustrated such as tribal practices, prehistoric Visayans' tooth decorations, and collective identity representation in other regions. It also delves into the symbolic nature of physical appearance, highlighting how specific traits carry different meanings in various societies. It addresses practices like cosmetic surgery and female genital mutilation, showing how cultural beliefs influence individuals' choices. The influence of globalization on beauty standards is discussed, noting the impact of dominant cultures on global perceptions of beauty and the rise of cosmetic enhancements. Extended self connects physical traits, attractiveness, and health to the external self, emphasizing the cultural and environmental influences on the meanings attached to possessions.
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