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Back to TED Radio Hour

TED Radio Hour

What Is Beauty?

Beauty surrounds us, gives joy and creates conflict. TED speakers conjure ancient and modern beauty, and suggest reasons why humans are hardwired to crave and respond. (Repeat)

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By Guy Raz • Jan 3, 2016 • 1 min read

Philosopher Denis Dutton discusses his theory that beautiful things are a core part of human nature with deep evolutionary origins. Then, psychologist and cognitive researcher Nancy Etcoff joins him to explain why beauty inspires and motivates us. Model Cameron Russell takes a wry look at the industry that had her looking highly seductive at barely 16 years old. Artist and vocational instructor Bill Strickland offers a quiet and astonishing tale of redemption through arts, music and unlikely partnerships. Designer Richard Seymour explores our response to beauty and the surprising power of objects that exhibit it.

Learn more or listen again to this week's episode, which originally aired on June 16, 2013.

  • https://images.ctfassets.net/2658fe8gbo8o/AvYox6VuEgcxpd20Xo9d3/769bca4fbf97bf022190f4813812c1e2/new-default.jpg?h=250

    Guy Raz

    Host, 'TED Radio Hour'

    Culture
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