Pronunciation: [lˈʊkɪzəm] (IPA) 
The word "lookism" refers to the prejudice based on physical appearance. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled as /ˈlʊkɪzəm/. The first syllable is pronounced as "luhk" with a short "u" sound followed by a hard "k" sound. The second syllable is pronounced with a soft "i" sound, followed by a "z" sound and an "uhm" sound at the end. The spelling of "lookism" clearly reflects its meaning, which is discrimination based on looks.
Lookism is a social phenomenon that revolves around prejudice, discrimination, or bias based on an individual's physical appearance. It entails forming judgments and treating others differently solely on the basis of their looks, often favoring individuals who conform to society's perceived standards of beauty or attractiveness while marginalizing those who do not.
In this context, lookism encompasses not just the act of evaluating others based on their appearance, but also the associated attitudes and behaviors that result from these evaluations. It can manifest in various aspects of life, including employment, relationships, and social interactions. For instance, in the workplace, lookism may lead to biased hiring decisions, promotions being granted based on physical features rather than qualifications, or unfair treatment of individuals who do not meet certain beauty ideals.
Lookism perpetuates unrealistic beauty standards, reinforcing the belief that physical attractiveness is crucial for success, worthiness, and social recognition. Such an emphasis on appearance can have detrimental effects on an individual's self-esteem and overall well-being, contributing to body dissatisfaction, anxiety, and even depression.
Awareness and efforts to combat lookism involve promoting acceptance and equal treatment for people of diverse appearances, challenging societal beauty norms, and recognizing individuals for their inner qualities rather than solely focusing on their physical attributes. By fostering inclusivity and embracing diversity, societies can strive for greater social equality, justice, and a more inclusive definition of beauty beyond superficial appearances.
The term "lookism" is a relatively newer word that was coined in the mid-20th century. It is derived from the English word "look" and the suffix "-ism".
The word "look" originated from the Old English word "lōcian", meaning "to see, look, or gaze". It has roots in the Proto-Germanic language. Over time, this word evolved and became a part of the English language.
The suffix "-ism" is derived from the Greek word "-ismos", which denotes a system, practice, or condition. It is often used to form nouns indicating a particular ideology, belief, or behavior.
Therefore, the term "lookism" combines the root word "look" with the suffix "-ism" to form a noun that refers to the prejudice or discrimination based on physical appearance or attractiveness.
