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You're concerned about controversy, because the origin is clearly sexist. Men running businesses wanted attractive women welcoming visitors (ie. other men) and helping them with tasks around the office.

The continuing problem is this hasn't changed much at all in the last half century. For example, you will not find one unattractive receptionist at any VC office on Sand Hill Rd.

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> I understand that beauty is subjective

It's not, really: displays of health, wealth, leisure are pretty much common. Youth and fertility for women. Status and wealth for men. Body symmetry.

My layperson's understanding is that some of the specifics can be contextual to a particular time and culture, but the principles are universal, and so are a good number of the specifics.

I edited that line out, because it was superfluous. It's clear why these individuals were hired, in addition to being great at their job.

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