Selfies are doing some good in the world. A study¹ published earlier this year explored the impact of #scientistswhoselfie, and what they found may surprise you. To outsiders, scientists are often as mysterious as the subjects they study, and despite perceptions of high competence, friendliness and warmth are another story. The implication—respect for scientists that doesn't necessarily translate into trust, and an "ivory tower" that contributes to science's long-standing communication problem. It turns out, a little selfie goes a long way in breaking down stereotypes. The study found that scientists posting selfies from the lab not only reached a wider audience, but led them to be perceived as significantly warmer and more trustworthy, and no less competent, than scientists posting photos of only their work. This exercise not only broke down the symbolic threats of scientists, but equalized the playing field. Subjects who viewed female scientist selfies also perceived science as les...