About Face

by Jonathan Cole

Book Overview

What is special about the face, and what happens when neurological conditions make expression of comprehension of the face unavailable? Through a mix of science, autobiography, case studies, and speculation, Jonathan Cole shows the importance not only of facial expressions for communication among individuals but also of facial embodiment for our sense of self. He presents, in his words, a natural history of the face and an unnatural history of those...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0262032465
• ISBN13: 9780262032469
• Release Date: January 1998
• Publisher: MIT Press (MA)
• Length: 223 Pages
• Weight: 1.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 6.3" x 9.3"

Customer Reviews

From one with Moebius syndrome

Jonathan Coles is perhaps the first writer to set into words many of the thoughts that I, and others affected with Moebius syndrome have considered for an eternity - how do we describe a purely physical condition that has intensely emotional consequences? I found myself underlining and starring a variety of points from his book that simply rang true with my own thoughts and experiences. Having grown up during a time when people felt things were best handled when "ignored" (and thus, NOT 'handled' - only "stuffed") I appreciated reading of Coles' observations - they made my own memories and perceptions have a slight more ring of authenticity to them.I would hope that, at some later date, those of us affected with Moebius ("Moebians" as we call ourselves!) would collaborate jointly on an additional literary project - that of sharing our own thoughts as we experience life without a smile. Anyone who thinks we all lead lives of reclusive solitude would be in for a huge surprise. Our greatest challenge seems to not be that which society percieves, the sad state of not having a smile, but rather the limitations others impose upon us by virtue of what they see and perceive. ('he's not smiling - he must be (1) disinterested, (2) dull, (3) stupid (4) uncaring ..., etc.)' Believe me, THAT kind of assumption is as example of the true burdens we must face on a regular basis - the mistaken notions that strangers have when ignorance and prejudice governs how they interact with people they don't know.You'll never find another book "out there" that deals with facial expression like this one does - I've looked! After saying this all, I can also say that I DON'T HAVE A BIG MOUTH!!!!!!!!!!!!! And... I can say THAT with a straight face! :):)