We cannot escape the ubiquitous influence of media as they shape and reshape our cultural perspectives. Media flood us daily with endless images about identity and lifestyle options. More and more messages say, “If you do not like who you are, do not worry: everyone can benefit from a makeover.” For those who believe that physical attractiveness is the secret to success in life, the idea that a makeover might usher one into a new and exciting world is irresistible. Equally irresistible is watching someone else take the plunge on national television. Sociologist Anthony Giddens and others have described this increasing public fascination with the private lives of others as an extension of our fascination with ourselves and our efforts to invent and reinvent our personal identities according to our circumstances and our audience. Read the rest of this entry »