Problem:
Max Weber's concept of the "ideal type" is a conceptual tool in social science that involves constructing abstract, hypothetical models by exaggerating or selectively emphasizing certain characteristics to better understand and analyze them. In other words, an ideal type should be a "measuring rod" or a "pure form" of a concept, idea, place, etc. that can be used to facilitate research, evaluation, and hypothesis generation of that concept, place, idea, etc. In example, in lecture this week we discussed different ideal type constructions of beauty in different periods of human history. These changes suggest that the very notion of beauty is shaped by larger social forces, rather than simply coded into our DNA.
Keep in mind, an "ideal type" is not YOUR PERSONAL ideal -- it is instead created by trying to think about what the average person in society might describe as the "ideal." In other words, what would be the most common features mentioned by everyone when asked to describe an idea that you are trying to create an ideal type for?
For your initial post: List at least ten physical features that would be associated with the ideal type construction of either male or female beauty in the United States. How might the ideal type reveal any racial, ethnic, religious, or other forms of identity discrimination found in the United States as represented by this ideal type standard of beauty?
HINT: Your ideal type should definitely reveal at least one form of identity discrimination that is embedded into beauty standards in the United States that you can discuss in greater detail. If it does not, keep adding ideal type constructions of beauty to your list until at least one form of discrimination is revealed. Need Assignment Help?