by Jane Prinsep

Created on: January 15, 2010   Last Updated: January 17, 2010

To judge people on their appearance is not a nice trait and nor is it fair.  But it is a truism that we form an opinion of someone, even subconsciously, within the first few seconds of meeting them.  Of course, we rely purely on their appearance to do this and this is simply human nature.

Is it acceptable to do this?  I believe it depends on the circumstance.  When looking to employ someone, for example, I think it is of vital importance that the candidate for the job has taken time with his or her appearance.  Taking care of this aspect of themselves does not necessarily mean that they must wear a designer outfit or suit, or be well-heeled in expensive footwear.  It does mean, however, that their hair should be clean, nails scrubbed, breath fresh and clothes should be appropriate for the job, clean and ironed.  Anything less signifies a lack of interest in themselves and indeed a lack of interest in the position they claim to be seeking.

But it also needs to be asked; what do we mean by "appearance"?  Are we also referring to "image"?  Discriminating against someone because they may be older, overweight, or balding is not acceptable in most circumstances when it comes to employment and yet, these are factors which would be of vital relevance to us if we were going on a blind date, for example.  We human beings are fickle creatures and adapt our opinions and practices according to our circumstances, environment and even our feelings, at a given time.

Coming away from the spheres of the workplace or dating, I know from personal experience that there are people I have met that, when I first laid eyes on them, I felt that I would not have anything in common with them, let alone form any kind of relationship.  Sometimes these people have surprised me greatly and have lead me to be angry at myself for being in any way judgemental towards them.  They have become lifelong friends, one of them has even become my life-partner, I am pleased and thankful to say.

I don't think we should judge people on appearance, but I think it is simply a reality that we do, at least in the initial instance.  In an ideal world, I would like to think that we should not.

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