The Power Of Aesthetics

Something that has a large amount of influence on how we perceive others, ideas, social constructs, or anything manmade is the aesthetic put into it. I am not just talking about the visual aesthetics, but how even ideas, associations, or the way things are said or romanticized can alter people’s perception of it. For example, some government officials refer to themselves as “Losing the war for hearts and minds” in response to the people here beginning to adopt political ideas from foreign countries. In reality, they are basically saying that they are losing control of their citizens. Notice how one of these statements sounds so patriotic while the other sounds sinister and even a bit silly? It’s because of the aesthetic way it is stated.

The subtle but great power of aesthetics going unappreciated is disastrous for a group. Being right is not always enough, especially in a society where people have no concern for what is factually correct when deciding their opinions. For example we could be walking in a forest and see flowers on the ground. I can either call them weeds or a natural lush garden. Notice how these statements describe the same thing but I transfer my judgment of the plants through speech when using either one of them? Aesthetics is not inherently good or bad, but it is a tool that can be used by very bad people to make themselves look a certain way. It also tends to work against marginalized people and people who are disadvantaged. Even a person’s identity can be tied to a certain aesthetic appearance or way of being.

If you ever feel that the impression you are giving to people is different from what you would like, you should probably evaluate your aesthetic presentation. It can be a good thing to say what is on your mind, but many people do not do this because they do not want to contradict the aesthetic they give off or undermine the impression people have of them. Many people play a social game of masquerade that normal people don’t even realize is happening. Obviously though the solution is not to have a fake presentation like those people, but instead to work on the aesthetic presentation of yourself, your ideas, your organization, or whatever else you are wanting to share with the world.