What does it mean to be beautiful? Exploring diverse perspectives on beauty

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Beauty is a concept that has fascinated humanity for centuries, shaping our cultures, philosophies, and personal interactions. It is not just about physical appearance but also encompasses deeper qualities, from character to artistic expressions.

In this feature, Ejame Amba explores different perspectives on beauty through the voices of individuals who share their thoughts on what makes someone or something truly beautiful.  

For some, beauty is intricately tied to perception. Assam Philip describes it as “an appealing characteristic inherent in humans, nature, flowers, and art forms.” He further emphasizes the role of both the physical and the “mind’s eye,” suggesting that beauty is more than what meets the physical eye; it also exists in the metaphysical realm, reflecting how our minds interpret and appreciate it.  

Others focus on the inner qualities of beauty. Chinedu Kevin (BA) believes that “the act of being beautiful is based on one’s character and how they relate to others.” For him, moral conduct and good relationships surpass physical attributes when defining beauty. Similarly, Isaac King highlights that beauty is “both inside and out,” rooted in love and personal warmth. This idea is echoed by Bassey Samuel, who says beauty lies in “the warmth and kindness we share with each other—those little moments that make our hearts smile.”  

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From another angle, beauty is seen as something that brings joy and admiration. Olagunju Temitayo describes beauty as “something good and pleasant to behold,” while Chineye Delight calls it “the quality of being pleasing or attractive.” Henry Eyim agrees, adding that beauty is something “admirable, appealing, suiting, and fine.”  

For others, beauty is tied to a sense of the divine and transcendent. Emmanuel Orok explains that beauty reflects “the divine, the sacred, or the transcendent,” suggesting a spiritual dimension to the concept. In a similar vein, Ojong Collins sees beauty as “the extraordinary representation of human resources,” emphasizing its connection to perfection and aesthetics.  

Physical appearance and outward appeal are also central to many definitions of beauty. Lovina Okpabi notes that beauty encompasses “appearance, character, inward and outward qualities, including body sizes and shapes.”

Gina Ogar adds that it is “something precious that catches the eye,” whether it is a person, a flower, or a baby. Michael Junior defines beauty as “something that looks and feels good to the senses or the heart,” connecting it to happiness and amazement.  

Some definitions extend beyond individuals to the broader human experience. Agbor Divine believes that beauty is “deeply personal, contextual, and multifaceted,” enriching life by inviting reflection and connection with the world. Judith Okpabi emphasizes the uniqueness and special qualities of beauty, while Onah Elijah highlights its ability to evoke joy, admiration, and appreciation, whether found in nature, art, people, or experiences.  

Ultimately, these diverse perspectives reveal that beauty is not a one-size-fits-all concept. It is deeply personal and varies from one individual to another. Whether it lies in physical appearance, moral character, emotional connections, or transcendent ideals, beauty enriches human life by inspiring, comforting, and connecting us to the world and each other.  

This mosaic of opinions demonstrates that beauty is as multifaceted as humanity itself—each interpretation is a reflection of the values, experiences, and perceptions that shape our understanding of what it truly means to be beautiful.

Ejame Amba is a final-year student at the University of Calabar.