Mitos Kecantikan Naomi Wolf dalam Religi: Analisis Hermeneutika Hans-Georg Gadamer

Abstract

This article investigates the concept of beauty as a “religion,” as articulated by Naomi Wolf. Employing a qualitative research methodology, the article adopts a hermeneutic approach informed by the framework established by Hans-Georg Gadamer, encompassing four key stages: theory effective-history (history of influence), pre-understanding theory, fusion of horizons (inter-melting horizon) and implementation or application theory. Primary data is sourced from Naomi Wolf’s seminal work, The Beauty Myth, while secondary data is drawn from diverse scholarly literature, including books, journals, and other relevant sources. The findings reveal that according to Naomi Wolf, the myth of beauty is construed as a religion wherein women are deified, with beauty perceived as a tool for societal advancement. Beauty rituals instill fear in women regarding non-ideal bodies, underscoring the urgency of the contemporary feminist movement's advocacy for body positivity. This study underscores the significance of challenging traditional beauty norms and fostering self-acceptance among women.