WRT to appearance changing reaction…it seems that only a pre-existing reputation can overcome reactions to visual appearance. I think of Steve Jobs in his trademark black turtleneck and jeans. I know that I will consciously dress “techie” (khakis and golf shirt, goretex jacket), “web developer” (khakis with funky shirt/turtleneck, funky hair, leather jacket), or “business” (khakis/wool pants, buttondown, tie and jacket optional), depending on the type and purpose of meetings I attend.

So it’s all marketing and mind games. You can stop playing when you’re at the top of your game.

P.S. Drew Barrymore was born on the exact same day as me (same year, too).

The problem arises when you realize that yes, we are so vain, and that egotist is only “above” the physical because if he wasn’t then he would be at the bottom of the physical realm. It’s a fairly simple and common way of living. If you are not in the elite category of something, simply declare it to be blue collar and ignorant to act that way. People will see this as rightousness and follow suit.

What I am curious to see is what these peoples’ lives would be like if everyone were uglier than they. Would they still hold that lofty idea of personality over physicality? Or would they take the easy road and go the way of Barrymore, getting their breasts pumped with silicone and their thighs airbrushed?