Evolution, perception, and brain mechanisms involved in facial attractiveness: An analysis from an evolutionary psychology perspective

Abstract

Traditionally, social theories have explained facial attractiveness as a characteristic culturally learned through socialization processes. However, Evolutionary Psychology has proposed that there are universal traits of physical attractiveness influenced by natural and sexual selection, as they indicate the reproductive and health quality of those who possess them. A vast number of studies have analysed facial traits and their social implications. This paper aims to summarize these efforts from an evolutionary perspective and explore their social implications. Furthermore, a synthesis of facial evolution is provided, the brain mechanisms involved in facial attractiveness perception are examined, and some explanations of evolutionary psychology on the traits that make someone attractive and why are discussed. Finally, this review concludes with a series of predictions about the study of facial attractiveness and shares a series of face databases that can be used for research and for the development of both undergraduate and graduate theses.