Michael Shermer Tests the Polygraph and Lie Detection Part 2

Can the polygraph machine really scientifically measure if someone is lying, or are all those graphs and numbers just pseudoscience in the service of law enforcement? Can we tell if someone is lying to us by their body language or facial expressions? Michael Shermer puts both the polygraph and lie detection to the test in this dramatic episode that features O.J.'s jury consultant lie detection expert.

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[bcbenp44]

It seems like people who has social anxiety give a lot of the same reactions as people who are lying. A person could be telling the truth and be accused of lying simply because they show how uncomfortable they are.

[Zeta9966]

Show me one reasonably real UFO video, and maybe I will believe you. Every single UFO or alien video I've seen is obviously fake. Michael Shermer is a gift to society. I am so tired of people taking everything at face value and just believing it. QUESTION EVERYTHING.

[0myjoe]

yah that's the good way to do it instead of measuring their heart beat or whatnot

[subtleTwists]

interpreting body language > the body language itself...imho

[subtleTwists]

"office Herbert...." , with that accent.  ;-]

[0myjoe]

However this is much more use than the polygraph. Everyone read a body language book. Trust me you see the world in a much clearer light.

[0myjoe]

Body language can only tell you when people are feeling uncomfortable, worried, excited, happy etc. But many people get used to one particular body language which they tend to show when neutral and this varies greatly.

[judojustim]

Wow i must be an expert on body language too. cuz i guesed all of the lies too.

[LUKE DURRANT]

She asked questions that were a easy target for them to lie about "have you ever stole office supplies" haha.. Take some one who was walked to the meeting and take someone that has been sitting for 45mins up to the meeting and let's guess who shifts there wait more...

[Derek Coons]

This is basically just a scientific as the polygraph. I could be asked if I've ever stolen anything and for some reason that question my be a big deal to me, even if I have never stolen. My heart rate could go up, I could start sweating, simply because of the question....even if I'm telling the truth in my response. People are all different, certain questions mean certain things to people. Humans are just too complex, although this may have some uses.

[intrptr]

Clinton was lying his ass off. Notice how each time he says a word he hits his wrist on the table for emphasis? He also winced his eyes and had a smirk the whole time which turned to a smile at the end. Serious business but he couldn't keep a straight face about it to save his life.

[intrptr]

Then that person would usually behave that way. Like a lie detector test, the subject is "pre tested" to determine their predilection. If they are nervous or anxious then they would just cross their legs more times than "usual".