Aesthetics, the philosophy of beauty and taste, shapes different aspects around the world. From the way one decorates one’s home to the design of certain products and even just one’s overall atmosphere, aesthetics can influence emotions, decisions and even a sense of identity. But does the aesthetic of something truly matter, or is it all superficial?
Humans are naturally drawn to beauty; studies in psychology say that an aesthetically pleasing environment can improve mood, reduce stress, and enhance productivity. For example, a well-designed coffee shop like Buddy Brew in Tampa focuses on natural lighting and warm colors to boost creativity and focus. Similarly, exposure to art and nature has also been linked to greater emotional well-being. I love being in nature and photographing what I deem aesthetic, especially in the summer when everything is blooming and colorful. Laila Romano, grade 12, states, “I love looking back at my camera and reminiscing on all the fun moments I’ve had and new moments yet to be captured.”
Beyond personal experience, aesthetics can also shape social interactions. People often make quick judgments about appearances, which coins the phrase “Don’t judge a book by its cover”; however, this can lead to shallow or biased perceptions. This can come in various forms, like fashion, product packaging, and personal hygiene. In art, design and marketing, aesthetics can decide engagement and success; a visually appealing website is more likely to retain viewers than a cluttered one. I know I fall short in giving the benefit of the doubt, but most of the time, I take aesthetics into the backseat regarding an item’s functionality. To mention Buddy Brew again, they may have the aesthetics, but for me, their coffee is not great, and neither are the prices for it.
Another example is the BMW brand, which has many beautiful and modern cars. Yet, most of their cars require high maintenance and can lack certain safety features, therefore making beauty secondary. In social and ethical matters, prioritizing aesthetics over the actual substance can lead to harmful superficiality, like valuing things based on appearance.
Aesthetics matter because they evoke emotion and identity. They enhance our surroundings, inspire creativity, and create meaningful experiences; however, their significance can depend on context. When balanced with function and deeper values, aesthetics enriches our lives without becoming distractions. In the end, beauty can be powerful when it serves a greater purpose beyond itself.