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Appearance Discrimination
Abstract
This project examines depths to which employers engage in discriminatory decisions related to physical appearance during the hiring process. Discrimination against people for their physical appearance is not illegal. This includes genetic features such as height, weight, eye color, and physical deformities, as well as chosen physical features such as dyed hair, piercings, tattoos, and makeup. Physical features can influence hiring managers’ decisions during interviews, and can also, to an extent, be managed by company policy. Basing hiring decisions on appearance can cross the line into the protected classes and be a form of age or religious discrimination. Many instances of discrimination related to physical appearance have been brought to court, and arguments have been made for the enactment of legislation to make it illegal to discriminate against job prospects due to their appearance.