If the media isn't that large a cause of low self-esteem, then why is this?

[Precocious]

I have a theory as why this is, but if the media doesn't actually cause low self-esteem or body image issues, why is it that skinniness is seen as most attractive today? Two hundred years ago, I think, the media said that being larger was more attractive, and I kind of want to use this as an argument proving that the media does affect what we see as beautiful. If we are told over and over again that a certain body is beautiful, through pictures or words, by the magazines or our peers and families, subconsciously or otherwise, won't that affect what we deem pretty?

My other theory is that the media just takes the least common body-type (now it's thin, with large breasts), that the wealthy normally have, and then markets it. Through that, the media allows major corporations to make money off of exploiting woman's insecurities.

Commentary or opinions?

 

[Gazz B]

Nah.

I love all women. As long as she's breathing, warm and has a pulse, i'm game