Environmental aesthetics, in my opinion, is a controversial issue; inundated by ones' perspective, shaped by culture and educational experience. Diving in Jamaica one will come across schools of sergeant major fishes, named for the colorful stripes that resemble a sergeant insignia, and become enthralled by their colorful patterns. To some, this is aesthetically pleasing - beautiful. But, if another variable is added, this very concept of "beauty" can change. The males tend to be very aggressive to protect their nest; they will attack divers relentlessly to deter them. Would these colorful fish still be considered beautiful, given their aggressive behavior? If given prior knowledge of the sergeant majors, whether by being attacked or reading about them, some would fear them. It is hard to expect these individuals to view them as aesthetically pleasing - beautiful. It is important to note, however, that one can use their knowledge and experience in shaping their definition of beauty. Someone knowing to avoid the nests could find the fish beautiful. Also, some might find it beautiful that the fish tries their endeavor best to protect their offspring. All-in-all, it is difficult, probably impossible, to find a unified theory of beauty.
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