Detail and perception
The highest resolution images in the data sets are 1024x1024 pixels. The typical facial image as reproduced in the paper, is just under 0.6 of a frame wide, so the facial image relied on is at best a mere 600 or so pixels wide. That's a pretty low resolution for adequate reproduction of small scale characteristics we use subliminally all the time to recognise individuals.
Furthermore, as a general rule, all studies that are based on human judgement suffer from an uncontrolled factor - the attentiveness of said subjects (the same problem that besets the Turing test). Plus, the paper does not disclose the breakdown (e.g. by ethnicity) of the subjects - a factor that could introduce bias (particularly in respect of the 'trustworthiness' judgement).
Consequently, although this is an interesting preliminary study, it would be unwise to assume it represents a universally applicable finding.
Biting the hand that feeds IT
