Appearances matter

What eye shape is most inviting? Does a largish nose make a face more attractive - or less so? And to which conclusions do we jump about a person’s abilities on the basis of his or her appearance? A team of researchers from the University of Freiburg is looking for people interested in taking part in an online survey on the perception of faces. The researchers want to determine what effects politicians’ appearance have on their campaign success.

Participants are invited to compare two randomly selected portrait photos. They must decide within seconds which one they find more attractive, likeable and competent. The participants will be shown 30 pairs of photographs. After they have assessed them, participants fill out a short questionnaire. The study is open to anyone who would like to particiapte; you can do so until February 26, 2018.

The online survey is anonymous and takes about five minutes. Participants are then eligible to win one of ten gift certificates for an online shopping platform. The certificates are valued at 20 euros each.

To take part in the survey, go to: www.survey.uni-freiburg.de