The Look of a Winner

That represents wishful thinking, we would all very much like to believe it's just correlation, that good looks are a result of capability, that Gore actually looks more competent then Bush (he doesn't: http://tinyurl.com/d6hur2).

But really, you have to realize this is true, people are hardwired to judge on looks. First judgements tend to stick, because people want to see their suspicions confirmed and when you start looking for something (especially during political campaigns) you will find it.

Wouldn't it be nice to just try to have elections where the candidates are anonymous? Everyone will be told the education and work history of the candidates and ofcourse all their standpoints. They'll have discussions purely in text, by newspaper or blogs. Unimaginable, I'm sure, but how would the voters react?

"one possibility is that the more serious candidates (the ones we know are going to win anyway) are more attractive. Maybe you have some goofy-looking people who decide to run in districts where they don't have a chance, whereas the politicians who really have a shot at being in congress take the time to get their hair cut, etc."

Not that there's anything wrong with being disheveled or unshaven, but if you want to play a part, you can at least make the effort to look the part.

By the way, the "print" link is broken. Here is the correct link:

http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=the-look-of...