The new app lets strangers rate your face
Summary
Newstalk Breakfast discusses the new website "Study of Us," which allows users to upload photos for strangers to rate their attractiveness. Counselling psychologist Leslie Shoemaker joins to analyze the platform, comparing it to Mark Zuckerberg's early "Hot or Not" concept and highlighting its addictive, algorithm-driven design. The conversation explores the psychological motivations behind such sites, the impact of shifting beauty standards, and the dangers of "looks maxing" culture. Shoemaker emphasizes that self-worth extends beyond physical appearance, urging listeners to ignore the sit…
Topics discussed
Sherwin-Williams Super Sale advertisement
Introduction to the 'Study of Us' website
Comparison to Facebook's 'Hot or Not' feature
Workplace rating groups and narcissism
Motivations and vulnerability of users
Shifting standards of beauty and looks maxing
Nostalgia for 1980s fashion and beauty trends
Gambling mechanics and credit system of the site
Algorithmic design and psychological hooks
AI photo alterations and accuracy concerns
Self-care versus the creepiness of looks maxing
Conclusion and sign-off
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