The Face is the Index of the Mind

Physiognomy (judging character from facial features) has fascinated humans for millennia.

Ancient Roots

• Aristotle: Believed that people who looked like animals shared their traits. (e.g., broad face = ox = strong but slow).
• Eastern Physiognomy (Gwan-sang): A complex system linking facial zones to destiny, wealth, and lifespan. It was used to hire officials and choose spouses.

The Dark Ages

In the 19th century, physiognomy became Scientific Racism. Lombroso claimed "criminals" had specific facial features (large jaws, asymmetric faces). This pseudoscience justified eugenics and was rightly debunked.

The AI Rebirth

Surprisingly, physiognomy is back—powered by Artificial Intelligence.

• Micro-expressions: AI can detect emotional leaks that humans miss (Paul Ekman's research).
• Health markers: Algorithms can predict heart disease or diabetes from a selfie.

We have moved from mystical face reading to Biometric Profiling. The tool has changed, but the human desire to "read" the other remains eternal.