"We are certainly influenced by role models, and if we are surrounded by images of beautiful rich people, we will start to think that to be beautiful and rich is very important - just as in the Middle Ages, people were surrounded by images of religious piety"

In this quote, Alain de Botton is highlighting the impact of role models on our understanding of appeal and success. He suggests that when we are continuously exposed to pictures of stunning and rich individuals, we might begin to think that these qualities are of utmost importance. This resembles how people in the Middle Ages were surrounded by images of religious devotion, which likely affected their beliefs and values. De Botton is warning versus blindly accepting societal ideals and motivates crucial considering the influence of good example on our perceptions and goals.