Experts at Leiden University in the Netherlands have discovered a fascinating link between eye features and human behavior. Their study found that brighter irises and larger pupils not only enhance perceptions of attractiveness but also influence how much money people are willing to donate. The research, led by Zachary Estes from the University of London, highlights the significant role eyes play in shaping social interactions and generosity.
The study involved a unique approach using photos of non-human primates with digitally altered eye features. Participants, totaling 64 individuals, were asked to evaluate the attractiveness of these primates. Specifically, they rated images of 32 different species, including chimpanzees, bonobos, and pig-tailed macaques. Investigators manipulated the pupil size to appear constricted or dilated while maintaining iris brightness. In a subsequent experiment, both pupil size and iris brightness were altered.
“We ask participants how much money they would donate to each portrait, and to rate them in terms of how cute, friendly and attractive they appear,” investigators explained.
The results revealed a clear trend: participants were more inclined to donate when viewing portraits with bright irises compared to those with darker ones.
“Participants donated substantially more when exposed to portraits showing primates with bright, rather than dark, irises,” experts noted.
“Donation behavior and affective responses are importantly affected when we manipulate the perceived iris brightness and pupil size of our portraits,” they observed.
The research further confirmed that perceived cuteness and friendliness peaked in portraits showcasing bright irises and large pupils.
“Perceived cuteness and friendliness were greatest in portraits with bright irises and large pupils,” they added.
This phenomenon aligns with previous findings by Estes, who reported in a July study that individuals appear more attractive when their irises are larger and exhibit more brightness.
“People appear more attractive when their irises are bigger, showing more brightness in their eyes,” according to Zachary Estes.
The implications extend beyond understanding perceptions of attractiveness. The findings suggest that beauty is subjective, influenced by external factors like eye features. This has sparked interest in iris-brightening cosmetic procedures known as keratopigmentation, which aim to enhance eye appeal by brightening the iris.
“Brighter irises and larger pupils elicited greater donations,” experts from the Netherlands’ Leiden University concluded.
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