Lip Service: Smiles in Life, Death, Trust, Lies, Work, Memory, Sex, and Politics

An expert in nonverbal communication tackles the science of smiles and their extraordinary social impact.

When someone smiles, the effects are often positive: a glum mood lifts; an apology is accepted; a deal is struck; a flirtation begins. But not all smiles are equally benign: a rival grins to get under your skin; a bully's smirk unsettles his mark. Who flashes more fake smiles, popular kids or unpopular kids? Is it good or bad when a bereaved person smiles? Much more than cheerful express...