Physiognomy at the Crossroad of Magic, Science, and the Arts

Physiognomy: History, Science, and Cultural Implications by Massimo Ciavolella, Valeria Finucci, and Megan Tomlinson explores the evolution of the study of facial features and expressions as indicators of character, ethnicity, and social traits. Tracing its roots from magic, religion, and early medicine to contemporary concerns with wellness, beauty, and reconstructive surgery, the book situates physiognomy at the intersection of art, science, and culture. It examines how cranio-facial neurophysiology, psychology, and surgical practice have intersected with physiognomic thought over centuries. The essays also address its historical associations with phrenology, craniology, and eugenic policies, as well as its entanglement with racial and social biases. By providing a chronological and interdisciplinary perspective, the book highlights both the scientific and socio-cultural significance of physiognomy across history.

Key Features

• Traces the historical development of physiognomy from classical roots to modern applications in wellness and cosmetic surgery
• Explores the relationship between facial study, cranio-facial neurophysiology, and psychology
• Analyzes the intersections of physiognomy with phrenology, craniology, and eugenic policies
• Examines socio-cultural, philosophical, and artistic dimensions of facial expression and character interpretation
• Highlights both positive and negative influences of physiognomic thought on Western socio-cultural history
• Integrates perspectives from art, literature, spirituality, science, and cultural studies for a multidisciplinary approach

Product Details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ De Gruyter; 1st edition (September 23, 2024)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 3111212742
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-3111212746