The Tell
The Little Clues That Reveal Big Truths About Who We Are by Matthew Hertenstein
By Sid Perkins
While most people think they’re good at spotting liars, the truth may come as a surprise. The vast majority can detect a lie only 54 percent of the time (barely better than flipping a coin). A tiny percentage, maybe one in 1,000 people, can discern a lie more than 80 percent of the time. These “truth wizards” are exceptionally keen at reading a person’s facial expressions and body language, among other clues.
Hertenstein, a psychologist, chronicles research into what such nonverbal cues can reveal about a person. The book’s title alludes to a poker player’s term for a mannerism that can provide clues about an opponent’s cards (SN: 10/19/13, p. 8). Research suggests that even brief observations of another person’s “tells” can offer keen insights into their personality, on-the-job success and even whether their marriage is likely to survive a rough spot.