Inflation and Deflation in the Face of Desire

Inflation and deflation are not just monetary phenomena.

College grade-point averages have been inflating for decades. Today's students may be on average better prepared, more motivated, and more intelligent, therefore more deserving of A's. Then again, it's also possible that "It’s about [professors] helping students....to 'succeed.'" by boosting resumes.

(EOnline image)

Conversely women's dress sizes have undergone deflation. In 1958

a star like Marilyn Monroe—with a 35-inch bust and 22-inch waist, might have worn clothing marked as a size 12 or larger at the time. But based off her bust size in modern times, she'd be about a size 6 or less now.

Clothing industry term: vanity sizing.

“Sizes are shifted down,” said Debra J. Klensch, chair of ASTM International’s subcommittee on body measurement for apparel sizing,.... a size 8 now has a bust that is 5.25 inches larger than it was in 1958, a waist that is at least 4.5 inches larger, and hips that are at least 6 inches larger.

In 1958, that would have been closer to a size 16.

"Immutable" standards become highly flexible in the face of desire.