Attractiveness bias: A cognitive explanation

Behav Brain Sci. 2017 Jan:40:e43. doi: 10.1017/S0140525X16000649.

Abstract

According to cognitive averaging theory, preferences for attractive faces result from their similarity to facial prototypes, the categorical central tendencies of a population of faces. Prototypical faces are processed more fluently, resulting in increased positive affect in the viewer.

Publication types

  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Bias
  • Biological Evolution
  • Cognition
  • Interdisciplinary Studies*
  • Psychology, Social*