The question “Why Do Asians Have Smaller Eyes?” is a common one, often stemming from observations about facial features across different populations. Recently, this topic has gained traction in China, sparked by controversies surrounding advertisements featuring Asian models with narrower eyes. These incidents ignited discussions about beauty standards, cultural stereotypes, and perceptions of Asian appearances. But beyond the cultural sensitivities, what are the actual reasons behind the variation in eye shape among different ethnicities?
This article delves into the science and cultural context surrounding the perception of “smaller eyes” in Asians, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding beyond simplistic stereotypes.
Chinese model Cai Niangniang faced online criticism for her eye shape in an advertisement, highlighting sensitivities around Asian representation and beauty standards.
The Science Behind Eye Shape: The Epicanthic Fold
The perception that Asians have “smaller eyes” is primarily due to a feature called the epicanthic fold. This is a fold of skin that covers the inner corner of the eye, and it’s more prevalent in people of East Asian descent, as well as other populations around the world. The presence of this fold can make the eyes appear narrower or almond-shaped compared to eyes without the fold.
It’s crucial to understand that this is a natural variation in human anatomy, not a sign of any deficiency or a literal difference in the size of the eyeball itself. In fact, studies have shown that the size of eyeballs is relatively consistent across different ethnic groups. The difference lies in the soft tissues surrounding the eye, particularly the epicanthic fold.
Scientists believe the epicanthic fold may have evolved as an adaptation to colder climates. One theory suggests that this fold provides extra protection to the eyes from harsh winds, snow, and the glare of the sun reflected off snow and ice, conditions common in many parts of Asia. This is similar to how other physical traits evolved in different populations to suit their environments.
Cultural Perceptions and Beauty Standards: A Historical Perspective
While the epicanthic fold is a biological trait, the perception of “smaller eyes” and its association with beauty standards is deeply rooted in cultural and historical contexts.
Historically, beauty standards are not static and vary significantly across cultures and time periods. In various Western cultures, larger, rounder eyes have often been associated with beauty, a standard that has been widely disseminated through media and popular culture. This has unfortunately contributed to the perception that eyes with epicanthic folds are somehow “less beautiful” or “smaller.”
However, it’s important to note that beauty standards within Asia itself are also complex and evolving. Interestingly, historical depictions of beauty in China, particularly during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), often featured women with slender, almond-shaped eyes. Paintings and artwork from this era showcase women with elongated eyes, considered elegant and beautiful at the time.
A Dior advertisement photographed by Chen Man sparked controversy in China for its depiction of a model with narrow eyes, highlighting sensitivities around representation and Western beauty standards.
The shift towards favoring larger, rounder eyes in some parts of modern Asia is a more recent phenomenon. Some experts suggest this change began in the late 20th century, influenced by increased exposure to Western media and advertising as China and other Asian countries opened up to global influences. This exposure led to the adoption of some Western beauty ideals, including the preference for larger eyes.
This shift is evident in the popularity of cosmetic procedures like double eyelid surgery in East Asia. This surgery creates a crease in the eyelid, making the eyes appear larger and rounder, reflecting the desire to conform to these evolving beauty standards.
The Recent Controversy in China: Nationalism and Stereotypes
The recent backlash against advertisements featuring models with epicanthic folds in China highlights a growing sensitivity towards how Chinese people are portrayed, particularly in the context of rising nationalism and anti-Western sentiment.
Critics argue that depicting Asians with “small eyes” in advertisements perpetuates outdated and racist stereotypes. The “slanted eyes” stereotype has a long and offensive history, particularly in Western media, often used to caricature and dehumanize Asians. Characters like Fu Manchu in Hollywood films, with his exaggerated narrow eyes, embodied the racist “Yellow Peril” trope, fueling discrimination and prejudice against Asian people.
Therefore, the outrage in China over advertisements featuring models with epicanthic folds is partly rooted in a rejection of these harmful stereotypes and a desire to redefine beauty standards on their own terms. There is a growing assertion of cultural pride and a pushback against the dominance of Western beauty ideals.
Embracing Diversity and Aesthetic Pluralism
The controversy also raises important questions about diversity and inclusivity in beauty standards. The idea that there is only one ideal of beauty is increasingly challenged by global movements promoting body positivity and the celebration of diverse appearances.
Experts argue that rejecting “smaller eyes” as a beauty standard is a rejection of aesthetic pluralism – the acceptance and appreciation of beauty in its many forms. True inclusivity means recognizing and celebrating the variety of human features, including different eye shapes.
Fictional characters like Fu Manchu, often depicted with narrow eyes, contributed to harmful stereotypes and racist perceptions of Asian people in Western culture.
Ultimately, understanding why Asians are perceived to have “smaller eyes” requires acknowledging both the biological basis – the epicanthic fold as a natural human variation – and the complex interplay of cultural perceptions, historical stereotypes, and evolving beauty standards. Moving forward, it is crucial to promote a more inclusive and diverse view of beauty that appreciates the rich tapestry of human appearances, regardless of eye shape or any other physical trait.
