Lookism, or looks-based discrimination, doesn’t get our society’s attention like sexism and racism, but philosopher Heather Widdows thinks it should. In one of our favorite interviews (originally aired in 2021, presented here with a new September 2023 intro), she explains the ethics of beauty and why beauty companies use moral language (“Be your best self!”) to sell products. This episode will make you rethink the way you talk about (and judge) other people's looks—and reconsider the way you respond when others comment on your appearance.
Below you’ll find a list of some of the people, topics, and products mentioned in this episode. If you have any questions (or just want to say hi), reach out to us on Instagram or via email (info@fatmascara.com). And please email us voice memos of your beauty questions and Raise A Wand favorites so we can share them on the show. You can also leave us a voicemail to be featured on a future podcast (our phone number in the U.S. is at 646-481-8182).
Heather Widdows
Perfect Me, Beauty as an Ethical Ideal by Heather Widdows
#EverydayLookism campaign
#EverydayLookism website
You’re So Vain by Carly Simon