“…Whereas evidence of cultural universality might suggest that first impressions have an innate origin, evidence of individual differences and cross-cultural variability accords with the view that first impressions are heavily influenced by cultural learning. According to the trait inference mapping account (Cook et al, 2022; Cook & Over, 2020; Over et al, 2020; Over & Cook, 2018), first impressions are the products of associative mappings between points in face-space (representations of facial structure) and points in trait-space (representations of the potential trait profiles that others may possess). Associative mappings are thought to be acquired through correlated face-trait experience; for example, exposure to cultural instruments (e.g., propaganda, illustrated story books, art and iconography) that repeatedly pair certain types of faces (e.g., handsome, square jaw, perfect smile) with particular traits (e.g., bravery, honesty, leadership).…”