Outerness

Outerness describes the quality or state of being external, superficial, or concerned primarily with outward appearances, features, or conditions. It encompasses the aspects of something that are readily observable, accessible, or that lie on the periphery. It can also refer to the degree of separation or distance from an internal core, essence, or deeper reality. The concept often implies a focus on what is evident or immediately perceived, contrasting with concepts of innerness, depth, or substance. This term is often used to contrast the superficiality of the outward facade with the true substance within.

Outerness meaning with examples

• Her carefully curated social media profile was a prime example of outerness, meticulously constructed to project an image of an ideal life. Every filtered photo and witty caption aimed to emphasize her external achievements and popularity, neglecting the complexities of her personal experiences, feelings, and deeper self.
• The architectural design of the building prioritized outerness, featuring a striking glass facade and elaborate ornamentation. It prioritized visual impact and public perception, sacrificing internal functionality and the needs of the occupants for a more aesthetically driven outward presentation.
• The politician was accused of prioritizing outerness in their policy decisions, focusing on headline-grabbing initiatives over addressing the complex, underlying issues facing the community. His policies seemed geared toward a more positive external appearance rather than practical solutions.
• Some people consider modern society focused on outerness, with an unhealthy obsession with brands, trends, and superficial validation, often at the expense of cultivating inner values, authentic relationships, and genuine experiences.
• In studying human behavior, researchers can consider how the level of outerness in a person affects their relationships. Someone who highly values their outerness may struggle with vulnerability, and intimacy, as they might be afraid of what people will think of the more authentic parts of them.