LOMBROSO, CESARE (1836 – 1909) Criminologist. Is villainy indicated by a person's physiognomy? According to Lombroso certain character traits are immediately apparent to the trained eye by a simple analysis of an individual's most prominent features. While modern criminologists tend to pooh-pooh Lombroso's theories, my own investigations have established several links between physical features and personality traits. While excessively red lips, for example, are no proof of cruelty or carnality in themselves, they would certain cause me to look for further evidence of either of these characteristics. Over developed calves and broad fingers, meanwhile, often indicate a violent nature while oversized or hairy tongues accompanied by pale gums and tapered fingers indicate perversion. See also EARS, SPENCER'S and FACIAL HAIR

 

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