LOOKS MATTER: Debunking ‘Don’t Judge A Book By Its Cover’

Subjective. Superficial. Stereotypical Isn't it ironic how everything seems more than what meets the eye, yet we sum it all up in a glance? Not to dismiss the idea of paying attention to details, rather, the focus shifts depending on what is important—standards. From size and shape, down to slims and curves, the list goes on. Thus, in a blink, everything needs to fit in just like puzzle pieces to see the bigger picture. Particularly in physical and external attributes of humans. Grooming is a natural practice even before it was taught as a must. Hygiene and dressing accordingly, with posture, prim and proper. Conformity to these standards gave us a sense of belonging and over time, our appearance served as our identity that sets us apart across the world. More than just a custom, how we look and present ourselves reflects our culture and our story. According to Cojocaru & Nikson (2025), throughout history, additional dimensions have been ascribed to the human body, reflecting both individuals’ self-perception and the way they are viewed by others. As a result, the body has constantly been influenced by rituals, customs, and treatments aimed at enhancing, modifying, displaying, adorning, or concealing certain features. The advancement of medicine in general and aesthetic medicine in particular, has made the pursuit of beauty more accessible. With the growing tendency to perceive the body as an evolving process and a “project”, modern society increasingly treats it as a long-term investment, intended to confer advantages, prestige, and recognition. Researchers and sociologists have explored the connection between physical appearance and social or personal status, revealing a strong correlation between one’s external look and societal standing. Studies indicate that individuals actively strive to present themselves in the best possible way, aligning with social norms and class expectations. This pursuit involves maintaining a proper diet, engaging in physical activities, and undergoing various medical and cosmetic procedures. No one has ever escaped from the fate of prejudice. From optical detectors that scans with built-in identification per flaw detected, to murderous murmurs that impedes one’s sense of hearing. Even the burglar envy that creeps in, snatches confidence and self-esteem away. Whether we admit it or not, it stems from the lie that looks doesn’t matter even if it does, and that’s the truth that slaps. After all, if looks can be deceiving, why would it be insignificant? Appearance should never be mistaken as trivial for external and physical stereotyping. Regardless how superficial it may be, objectivity requires taking subjectivity into account. No lesson is learned from a skipped chapter. And it all starts with respect even if not on the same page. Because despite the fact that people shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, they still do.