Here's a thought-provoking post

Over at the Freakonomics blog, "How Much Do Looks Matter?"-- maybe some of you can consider answer these questions too.

On a scale of 1 to 10, how do you rate your physical attractiveness? On the same scale, how do you rate your intelligence?

If the average is 5, I don't know, maybe a 6 or 7.

Intelligence though--at least an 8. Maybe a 9.

Has your level of attractiveness ever affected your job or salary?

Yes, I'm sure when I was younger and cuter I can think of at least one job that I probably got because of that. I think being attractive (and looking professional) may have affected how I perceived and influenced some of my promotions and salary increases, but I don't think it was a really big factor.

How important is physical appearance in your industry?

Not very, I'd say. At least, no more important than it is in any other aspect of society. I think in general attractive people are more likely to stand out and be given opportunities. But I don't think being average or unattractive holds genuinely talented people back. But mediocre people who look good probably rise to the top faster than most. Anyone have any thoughts about that?

About how many coworkers do you consider above average in attractiveness?

Back at the mother ship . . . considering all the rest of the building as co-workers . . . 10 to 15%. It was a pretty average group of people. In my immediate office (3rd floor) probably higher than that, of course.

Do you prefer to work with people you find attractive over people you find unattractive?

I guess I'd prefer not to work with people who are downright ugly, but other than that I don't think I care. Other qualities are more important. I'd take a smart unattractive person over a gorgeous idiot any day.

Tell me about a work-related incident that made you most aware of the way you look.

No thanks, I'll pass on that one.

Anyone else want to share their thoughts? And if this gets talked about at the lunch table, please post a summary!