A Modest Proposal: Pick the President Based on Looks

Since agendas of voters vary widely, candidates throw "red meat to their bases" on the left and right in the primaries and then swing to compete for the "swing voters and Independents" & since they seem to "flip flop" "pander" "frame statements" & depart from the equivocal voting records - I suggest that we vote for them based on looks. These suggestions come from a paper from the home state of McCain and are based on data from an academic paper in the area of social psychology. It is also important to look at pictures and videos, and to see the candidates live (if possible) but for best decision, turn off the audio/wear earplugs and just stare closely at their features, body language and movement patterns. Be careful not to project too much of yourself, or to be influenced by resemblance to disliked (or beloved) authority figures, ex-spouses or lovers or other significant individuals in your personal past.

John McCain

McCain has a square face and pronounced jowls, features that have been associated with perceived dominance when shown to people in both Western and non-Western cultures, Keating's research has shown. His close-set eyes give him an aggressive look when he knits his brows together. McCain's facial scars, wrinkles and receded, silver hairline give the 71-year-old the appearance of masculinity and seniority, an aura of "been there, done that," she said. Voters who are concerned mostly with national-security issues could be drawn to him because of his mature features, she said. "People who are less confident will be worried about him imposing old solutions to new problems, and for that, they will be looking for someone who looks different," she said. In that case, they may be drawn to Obama, she said, who as a mixed-race man may appeal to people who want a new way of thinking about problems.

Barack Obama

Obama's strengths include a square jaw, narrow eyes, and prominent brow and nose. His brown eyes and full lips lend a feeling of warmth, she said. Voters who are concerned mostly with the economy and health care may be drawn to Obama's face because his warm eyes and smile convey caring, she said. His oblong-shaped face gives him a mature look, and his well-defined cheekbones suggest an aristocratic air. "He looks like more of a strategist than a fighter," she said. Obama's prominent ears could work for or against him, Keating said. They give him a boyish look, making him seem approachable and fun. Voters who mainly are looking for strength could view his boyish ears as a negative.

Comments

[Amerisleep cool and healthy memory foam]

Euphemisms have been used to "soften the language" when it comes to the condition in combat where a soldier's nervous system has reached the breaking point. In World War I, it was called "shell shock." In World War II, it became "battle fatigue," definitely less harsh-sounding, though two syllables became four.