TED Radio Hour Elise Hu: The Beauty Ideal
Aug 20, 2021
Elise Hu, a journalist and host of TED Talks Daily, dives deep into the evolving standards of beauty and their societal implications. She examines how beauty norms, particularly in South Korea, influence individual identities and financial decisions. The conversation uncovers the damaging effects of social media on young women’s self-image and promotes initiatives like the As She Is Challenge, which fosters natural beauty. Hu also highlights the contrasting beauty perceptions of indigenous cultures and advocates for a more inclusive approach to feminine aesthetics and identity.
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Arrival in Seoul
- Elise Hu describes arriving in Seoul and being struck by the ubiquitous beauty ads.
- Every store seemed to be a makeup brand, emphasizing the city's focus on appearance.
Beauty as a Modern Female Experience
- Elise Hu emphasizes the seriousness of beauty culture, especially for modern women.
- Maintaining this "beautiful" appearance demands money, effort, and adhering to aesthetic norms.
"Too Pretty"
- Sasha Sarrago recalls being told she was "too pretty to be Aboriginal" as a child.
- This experience instilled shame and made her question her identity.