Mona Lisa & Smiles
Why do you think Mona Lisa’s smile is still famous today?
Because it’s mysterious and makes people wonder what she is thinking.
Why do babies smile even before birth?
Smiling is a reflex, part of natural human behavior.
Why did primates show their teeth?
To communicate fear or readiness to attack.
What makes a Duchenne smile different from a social smile?
It uses both mouth and eye muscles, showing genuine warmth.
If someone has a mischievous smirk, what might they be feeling or thinking?
They might be playful, teasing, or hiding a secret thought.
Blind babies can smile too. What does this tell us about smiling?
Smiling is natural, not just visual; it’s connected to feelings.
Humans inherited smiling from primates. Why might it have been useful in evolution?
To show friendliness and avoid aggression.
If someone gives you only a polite social smile, how might it feel different from a Duchenne smile?
It may feel formal or polite, but less emotionally warm.
How does a smile affect the people who see it?
It can lift their spirits, make them feel happy, or be contagious.
Imagine a baby smiling at a sound. Why might this be important for human bonding?
It helps create connections between the baby and caregivers.
Do you think smiling helped humans survive in groups? Why or why not?
Yes, because it built trust and social bonds.
What happens in your body when you smile?
Dopamine and endorphins increase, blood pressure may lower.