Social Engineering Blogs

Yesterday we gave Dr. Matsumoto’s analysis of a still expression of James Holmes in court on Monday. We explained that photographs are often difficult to analyze, as you cannot usually tell if the expression is a reaction or a gesture.  You also cannot see how long the expression is on the face.

We had Dr. Matsumoto review the live video of James Holmes in his first court appearance (below). His thoughts?

He sees fear and sadness (distress) in the face. This is illustrated by the raising of the brows and crinkling of the forehead. However, the drooping eyelids makes it appear he is under the influence of drugs or is highly medicated. His odd behavior could also be attributed to an out of reality experience of some sort. It’s difficult to tell.

Have you seen Holmes’ behavior? Take a look below to see for yourself.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Patti was interviewed on HLN recently to analyze the body language of George Zimmerman’s apology.

Several people have asked us to comment on James Holmes’ facial expressions during his first court appearance on July 23.

The 24 year-old Holmes is the sole suspect in the Aurora Theater shootings which left 12 people dead and almost 60 others wounded.

Our thoughts go out to all the victims’ families affected by this senseless tragedy.

Photographs are often difficult to analyze, as you cannot usually tell if the expression is a reaction or a gesture.  You also cannot see how long the expression is on the face.

When asked what facial expression can be observed in the picture above, Dr. Matsumoto states that it “Depends on how long it’s on the face and if it’s a reaction or a gesture.  If reaction then fear. If gesture then disbelief”

Can a photograph serve as a reliable document of truth?

Take a look at Dr. Matsumoto’s Academy of Art interview below to hear his thoughts.