Super-recognizers: The rare few who never forget a face
Super-recognizers: The rare few who never forget a face
Super-recognizers: The rare few who never forget a face
From the very first minutes of life, humans begin recognising faces. Yet only a tiny fraction of people possess an extraordinary ability to identify them under difficult conditions. Known as super-recognizers, these individuals are now being recruited by police forces across Europe to help solve crimes and locate missing persons.
Most adults can recall between 5,000 and 10,000 faces in their lifetime. But super-recognizers stand out—they excel at picking out faces even in crowded or low-quality images. Their brains show stronger and more efficient activity in areas linked to facial recognition, as confirmed by EEG scans comparing them to average recognisers.
To identify these rare talents, neuropsychologist Meike Ramon developed a strict multi-stage testing process. Police forces in several European countries now use her methods to recruit super-recognizers for investigations. Some, like the author in a real-world test at St. Gallen train station, can spot a person years later using just a childhood photo, describing the moment as when 'everything clicks' and they 'just know.' For those curious about their own abilities, the University of Greenwich offers an online test. While not a full assessment, it gives a glimpse into the skills that set super-recognizers apart.
Super-recognizers make up just one to two percent of the population. Their unique skills are now being put to practical use, aiding law enforcement in cases where facial identification is critical. With specialised testing and growing demand, their role in policing looks set to expand.
Low-dose nanoplastics in water harm gut and liver health, study finds
Your drinking water may hold hidden dangers. Scientists uncover how tiny plastic particles harm organs—and why diet makes it worse.
Five hospitalized after carbon monoxide leak from faulty chimney in Ludwigsburg
A silent killer struck a Ludwigsburg home when a chimney flaw filled it with odorless gas. Families now face the hidden dangers of carbon monoxide.
Boy, 9, survives brain bleed after scooter fall initially dismissed as minor
His scooter tumble looked harmless at first. Hours later, surgeons raced to save his life from a hidden brain bleed.
Sakhalin Oblast bets on wellness tourism to double visitor numbers
A remote Russian region transforms into a global wellness hub. Rare mineral springs and tailored health retreats could redefine travel—and local lives.