Should Attractive People Only Date Those Who Are Also Attractive?

The question of whether attractive people should limit their dating pool to others who share their pleasing features has sparked heated debate. Opinions on this issue run the gamut, from those who strongly believe in this principle to those who find it absurd and unnecessary.

Those Who Believe in Dating Like-Kind

Some argue that people should date others who are similar to them. This perspective suggests that individuals with the same level of attractiveness, education, or income should ideally pursue romantic partners who hold similar traits. The logic behind this is that people with shared attributes are more likely to be compatible in terms of social and economic standing.

A common argument is that when dating downwards, individuals with higher incomes and assets should use their resources to maintain their social and economic status. They emphasize that a mismatch in attractiveness can lead to dissatisfaction and potential instability in the relationship.

Opponents: A Personal Choice

Others reject this notion, viewing it as a form of social pressure rather than a desirable standard. They argue that attractiveness is subjective and that each person should have the freedom to choose their romantic partner based on factors that are personally important to them.

The opponent's stance often cites examples where attractive partners are still willing to date less conventional beauties, suggesting that attraction is a complex and multi-dimensional phenomenon. They highlight the example of a "plain Jane" wife married to an extremely attractive man, demonstrating that attraction can transcend conventional beauty standards.

Practical Considerations

Practically speaking, there are several considerations to be made beyond simple attractiveness. For instance, the ability to maintain a satisfying sexual relationship and share a similar sense of compatibility is often more important than physical looks.

Some suggest that the attractiveness of one's partner can affect the likelihood of passing on desired physical traits to offspring. However, this is not a significant concern for many, as the majority of couples continue to live together regardless of their partner's attractiveness.

Final Thoughts

The debate over whether attractive people should only date those who are also attractive ultimately boils down to personal values and cultural norms. It is important to recognize that attraction is a deeply personal and subjective experience. People should be free to pursue their romantic relationships based on what feels right for them, rather than external pressures or societal expectations.

The key to healthy relationships lies in mutual attraction, shared values, and the ability to connect on multiple levels. Whether physical appearance plays a significant role in a relationship should be a personal decision, not a dictate from society.