Final answer:
The text does not specify a particular rating system, but discusses the 'male gaze' as a concept where men assess women's attractiveness based on stereotypical physical traits that are often portrayed in media, such as thinness and fair skin.
Step-by-step explanation:
The commonly used rating system that men employ to assess the attractiveness of women is not explicitly named in the provided text excerpts. However, the discussion points towards the concept of the 'male gaze,' as theorized by British film theorist Laura Mulvey, which implies a societal tendency for men to judge women predominantly by their physical appearance. Media representations often reinforce stereotypes of attractiveness, focusing on features such as thin bodies, fair skin, and youthfulness. This portrayal promotes a limited and standardized view of female beauty, thus influencing both male perceptions and female self-conceptions.
Regarding research on universal traits of attractiveness, some features that are considered attractive in women include large eyes, high cheekbones, and a narrow jawline, amongst others. However, it's crucial to note that attractiveness varies culturally and is also influenced by social traits such as warmth and social skills for women and achievement and leadership for men.