How to Read Human Nature: Its Inner States and Outer FormsAtkinson, William Walker
Science
How to Read Human Nature: Its Inner States and Outer Forms
Atkinson, William Walker
Character; Personality; Phrenology; Physiognomy
Physiognomy is "the science and art of discovering or reading the temper
and other characteristic qualities of the mind by the features of the
face." The philosophy underlying the science of Physiognomy has been
stated at length in the first several chapters of this book, the essence
of which is that _mental states manifest in outward form_. The majority
of persons apply the principles of Physiognomy more or less
unconsciously in judging the characters of those with whom they come in
contact. Nearly every one scans closely the features of those whom they
meet for the first time, and form a general impression therefrom.
Children and domestic animals possess an instinctive knowledge of facial
expression and can often tell very accurately the general disposition
toward them possessed by various persons. Certain persons are generally
considered to "look stupid," while others have "a bright, intelligent
expression"; some look "tricky," while others "look honest" and
trustworthy.
Professor Nelson Sizer says: "Though all human beings have the general
human form and features--though all have eyes, nose, mouth, chin, etc.,
yet each one has a different face and look from every other. And, more,
yet, the same person has a very different facial look at different
times, according as he is angry or friendly, etc. And always the same
look when in the same mood. Of course, then, something causes this
expression--especially, since all who are angry, friendly, etc., have
one general or similar expression; that is, one look expresses anger,
another affection, another devotion, another kindness, etc. And since
nature always works by means, she must needs have her physiognomical
tools. Nor are they under the control of the will, for they act
spontaneously. We cannot help, whether we will or no, laughing when
merry, even though in church, pouting when provoked, and expressing all
our mental operations, down even to the very innermost recesses of our
souls, in and by our countenances. And with more minuteness and
completeness than by words, especially when the expressions are intense
or peculiar."
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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