The Thatcher effect, named after the notorious former premiere, whose photograph was first used to demonstrate the effect, refers to the odd way the human brain perceives an upside-down face. The best way to explain is to demonstrate. Have a look at this video, which is a wee bit creepy…
embedded by Embedded Video
YouTube Link: OU video demonstration
So the Thatcher effect means that on an upside-down face, we do not notice if the eyes and mouth are turned around 180 degrees (so they are the right way up, but the wrong way up for the picture). Cool.
This was demonstrated on a recent QI programme, where it was also revealed that it takes 12 facial muscles to smile, but only 11 to frown. So the next time someone says that it takes less muscles to smile if you’re a bit grumpy, you can justifiably tell them where to go!
Just as interesting, the QI episode in question evoked outrage and even threats from arch Conservatives:
But senior Tory figures condemned the broadcast and some viewers said they were “astounded” and “disgusted” by the remarks.
Lord Tebbit told The Daily Telegraph: “It is another depressing episode. Lady Thatcher has been treated like this by the BBC for the past 30 years. It’s no good asking them for an apology. It’s like trying to stop a dog from barking.
“If we have a Conservative government then we can do something about it.
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