Even though we’ve
mentally evolved past falling for the hunkiest caveman in the tribe, it turns
out that part of our brain hasn't. (Photo courtesy
of People).
Given the fact that he is a Norse god, it’s no surprise that
Australian actor Chris Hemsworth, best known for his role asThor, has been
named People magazine’s 2014 “Sexiest Man Alive” (sorry, Adam
Levine—it was a good run).
Even if Hemsworth isn’t your cup of tea, it’s hard to deny that
he is traditionally handsome. The facial features of Hemsworth and other celebs
like him—think Daniel Craigand David Beckham—possess the smoldering
masculine attributes that humans have evolved to find attractive and sexy.
“It’s that rugged handsomeness,” social and consumer
psychologist Debbie Then, PhD., told Yahoo Health. “They’re men’s men, and
they’re strong—there’s that protection factor.”
The most attractive
characteristics of Hemsworth’s face and how humans subconsciously read
them.(Photo by Getty Images)
But beyond that, masculine facial features like Hemsworth’s—the
chiseled jaw, broad chin, and prominent brow bone—are classic hallmarks of
testosterone. These features are designed to push certain evolutionary buttons,
subconsciously advertising virility and good health.
In other words, Hemsworth would likely make a solid mate
choice—or at least be perfect for a short-term fling (though he’s already
spoken for).
Several studies have shown that, in general, women are more
attracted to masculine men during ovulation, when they’re at their most
fertile. It makes sense because these particular men would have been smart
choices for our female ancestors, potentially improving an offspring’s chances
of survival.
Even though we’ve mentally evolved past falling for the hunkiest
caveman in the tribe, it turns out that part of our brain hasn’t. Women still
scan men’s facial traits because they help reveal information about the men’s
testosterone levels and even how strong their immune systems are — crucial
information to know about a mate, especially before modern medicine.
Related: The Astounding Amount of Bacteria Passed in a Kiss
A 2011 study in the journal Nature Communications had
women look at photographs of men and rank them according to attractiveness. The
men who were rated the most attractive turned out to have both high levels of
testosterone and strong immune systems. The female study participants
subconsciously picked up on those evolutionary cues just by looking at a
photograph.
Other research has shown that women are drawn to men
who, like Hemsworth, possess prominent cheekbones and a strong chin, which are
seen as signs of male physical maturity and strength. Hemsworth’s clear, bright
eyes and blemish-free skin? Also indicators of mate-worthy good health.
Another factor in Hemsworth’s favor: His face is symmetrical,
meaning that if you drew a vertical line down his face, both sides would appear
identical—though no one’s face is perfectly symmetrical. Facial symmetry is
considered the epitome of beauty, but not just because it’s pleasant to look
at—symmetry also indicates healthy development and, you guessed it, good genes.
So for those who do harbor a crush on Hemsworth, now you know
why.
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