Moodboard for the episode "Open Book"
This moodboard displays the MEI-lens (short for Micro Expression Interpretation) together with some other artefacts/concepts that exist in this speculative world.
What - The MEI-lens is just one of the tools that can be used for the MEI-programme (also short for Micro Expression Interpretation), which is able to recognise and correctly interpret every micro expression that appears on a human's face. You just have to wear this lens and it augments your perception by visually highlighting and describing the emotional state of a person. It does so by analysing and combining the occurrence of facial expressions, other non verbal gestures (posture, gestures, ...) and also body temperature. The MEI-programme also takes cultural differences in ways of expression into account. With this knowledge available in real time, it is nearly impossible for people to hide their true feelings and also for the wearer to misunderstand the intentions of others.
Who - In general anybody can buy a MEI-lens if they have the money for it, but also cheaper versions of the programme can be bought (e.g. an app where videos can be analysed) that are more commonly used. Not everybody is a fan of this technology though, as people naturally don't want to share every feeling they have. That's why a countermovement was formed, that uses tools to hide their micro expressions (masks, tape, special makeup and even surgery) and demands that being able to lie should become a basic human right.
Why - Originally the lens (or programme in general) was intended for the usage in court to tell if somebody is telling the truth. After its successful integration in the work context, it's now slowly beginning to become more part of the people's daly lives.
Where - While the lens itself can be used in multiple situations where the authenticity is essential (job interviews, court hearings and other legal stuff, ...), it is also sometimes deployed in a more personal context (work environment, within families, ...).
When- The lens can be used whenever the user wishes to, but it must be put in its lens case after max. 4h of use to recharge and shouldn't be worn while sleeping. As it's a very sensitive technology it should be handled with great care (the lens could be easily crushed without great force). Also, if not in use, the lens should always be put in its lens case and the lens fluid should be changed every couple of days.
How - As everything, the MEI-lens could probably be hacked to display the wearer the wrong emotions. Either to manipulate it in a way that puts the observed person in a disadvantage (e.g. show the person is lying even if they aren't) or to benefit them (e.g. person is lying but this isn't displayed). Depending on the context, some people are using it to tell if somebody is telling the truth or to better understand their real emotions. As of now the lens can only consider signals that can be seen (expressions, gestures, temperature). It cannot analyse the tone/speed of voice, what is said or the heartbeat. This could be further improvements, but they might be realised with a different wearable in the future.