Could we tell the level of someone's intelligence by just looking at their faces? Is it possible?

Question

What's causing us to immediately determine if someone is worth talking intelligently about a subject?

Answer 1

No, there is not.  There are even people who might look like they have a medical condition (like Down's Syndrome) who do not.

Even with professional testing and without any language barriers, it is often impossible to determine another person's intelligence.  People generally tend to believe that they are personally more intelligent than they actually are and they also tend to believe that people who think and talk and act like they do are more intelligent than people who are different.

When confronted with ideas which are just a little different, one might assume that the other person is intelligent if they present their information in a reasonable manner that can be understood.  This other person may be less intelligent but just better at communication (or with the BS factor).

The most intelligent people tend to be so far above social norms as to appear insane to their own cultures.  The least intelligent people tend to be very poor in communication techniques.  The people in the middle probably cannot determine the difference.

In terms of your personal social interactions, you might listen first and join in conversations later.  Start by asking a question, not by making a statement.  The most intelligent people will usually remain quiet or ask you a question to clarify what you meant to ask.  The least intelligent usually spit out an answer with no additional thought.

Answer 2

Unfortunately, no.  There are no facial features that always indicate intelligence or a lack thereof.  (Or even a conglomeration.)  Yes, people with downs syndrome show distinct facial features, but saying they aren't intelligent isn't necessarily correct.  Then again, this all depends on your definition of intelligence.  I'm going on basic reasoning skills and  an ability to learn and understand.  

This isn't to say that there aren't people that look stupid...  It just might not actually reflect on their IQ.

Answer 3

Yes, the eyes are an extension of the brain, so when you look at someone's eyes, you are actually examining their brain, without the aid of a microscope!

Answer 4

No (except for the Down's Syndrome look).

What leads someone to conclude a person is talking intelligently about a subject is what they SAY, not thir facial features.

Answer 5

I think I tend to judge by the eyes, but I have often been proven wrong.  I don't think there is realistically any way to judge just by looking at someone.  You need words coming out of their mouth to make an accurate assessment of intelligence.

And just a word about Down syndrome -- yes, for the most part you can see they have Down syndrome (keeping in mind the exception noted above), but that tells you nothing really about their intelligence level.  You only know that lower than average intelligence is associated with the condition.  There is GREAT variation in level of functioning in people with Down syndrome, so don't be quick to judge whether they are someone you would like to know.  I've had wonderful conversations with people with the condition!!

Answer 6

well everyone has their own preference about how people should act/look like so we generally try to meet people who fit our standards.  theres really no reason for it, we're just @ssholes!!