Superficiality

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The crisp, clean, and smooth beauty of machines and technology captures every human’s eye. People are drawn to the sleek curves and shiny surfaces that man-made items possess. The perfection of such beautiful designs enthralls the human race; nature is no longer the source of beauty that is desired. Yet, when it comes to fashion, futuristic and cyborgian designs are mostly unheard of. People desire the aesthetic perfection that exists in technology but not yet for adorning natural bodies. Fashion and clothing styles are the only areas that have remained untouched by technology until recent times. However, perfection is desired in human appearance, along with the human need to advance. Through superficiality and the need to progress, musical artists use their fashion as a means of breaking the boundaries of normalcy in human appearance.

Superficiality will always exist as an integral part of human nature. Humans are constantly striving for perfection (like that of machines). No matter how different each individual is, the common trait of an inherent superficiality is shared because it is embedded deep in the human experience. A common question that arises is: “What is this perfection we are striving for? It is the enhancement of self-esteem, the success of overcoming, the actualization of self. This striving is universal for humankind (although each individual gives it his unique stamp) and carries within it the goal of an ideal community” (Rummel). Perfection will always be on the minds of human beings. Striving for this perfection, popular musical artists such as Lady Gaga, Rihanna, and Beyonce, (and others), all dress to resemble futuristic machines. The artists have created a cyborg style of fashion that more closely resemble...

... middle of paper ...

...nd Beyonce have pushed the old boundaries of what was considered normal, and have now created a new standard of normal, proving that normality is ephemeral.

Works Cited

Rummel, R.j. "MOTIVATION AND GOALS." University of Hawaii System. 28 Nov. 2002. Web. 06 Dec. 2011. .

Sharp, Patrick B. "Man the Toolmaker." Savage Perils: Racial Frontiers and Nuclear Apocalypse in American Culture. Norman: University of Oklahoma, 2007. Print.

"Taking a Risk to Support Controversial Issues: Pushing the Boundaries of Philanthropy | Latest from Alliance." Latest from Alliance | Latest from Alliance | News and Comment on Philanthropy and Social Investment around the World. Web. 06 Dec. 2011. .

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