Chapter 38
Halo Effect
One positive trait — particularly physical attractiveness — causes us to assume a person is superior across entirely unrelated dimensions.
Examples
- Attractive political candidates consistently win more votes regardless of their policy platforms or qualifications.
- A beautifully designed book cover causes readers to assume the content is more intelligent and well-written.
- Attractive defendants receive lighter sentences in court — judges and juries are not immune to the halo effect.