Everyone gives a little bit of their true feelings away – especially if their true feelings are at odds with what they’re saying – in fleeting micro-expressions that last less than a second and are often missed by those watching.

Fred Thompson’s YouTube announcement that he’s about to announce is a fascinating case in point. The script is unexceptional – all about unity and muscle:

On the next president’s watch, our country will make decisions that will affect our lives and our families far into the future. We can’t allow ourselves to become a weaker, less prosperous and more divided nation. Today, as before, the fate of millions across the world depends on the unity and resolve of the American people.

OK, there’s not much there, especially after making us wait so long for the big day.

But what’s interesting are Fred’s micro-expressions. He’s got the concerned, open wrinkled forehead. He ducks his head a lot, like Ronald Reagan did so effectively on TV in his day – except that Fred does it a little too much. He looks like Fred Bobblehead Doll Thompson. And then, at the end of each phrase, he pulls the corners of his mouth down in an expression of disgust – as if he is aghast at something that he’s thinking about.

What is it? The script? His candidacy? The terrible state of American politics and our standing in the world? Tell us, Fred – you’re running for President. You should tell us the truth, right?