The early 20^th century was a period of intense growth and transformation, not least in the thinking about fundamental human attributes and activities. Analysis and science seemed to be the obvious secret to economic progress, which was felt to be the key to overall well-being.  How to Analyze People on Sight, published in 1921, was very much a product of that time.  The well-educated Benedicts brought the language of science and discipline of categorization to bear on human appearance, developing a system where five basic body types were used to define corresponding emotional and behavior patterns.  The first chapter outlines the premises of Human Analysis. The next five discuss the profiles –  Alimentative, Thoracic, Muscular, Osseous, and Cerebral – often to be found in blended combinations with various degrees of influence.  The remaining chapters discuss the types that should and should not marry one another and the best vocations for each type.  The underlying premise is that the biology drives destiny, and with knowledge in hand, one can make better informed decisions about oneself and others.  While it takes the subject matter seriously, it is done so with a light touch that allows for humor. The book has remained popular over the years, and continues to be one of the most downloaded ebooks in the public domain. Contemporary readers range widely in their response to the work. Most acknowledge that it is not really scientific as we know it today, and that it suffers by limiting its analysis largely to Caucasian peoples. Some find it biased and lacking in evidence, but many find it useful and insightful.

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