This Robot Makes Human Facial Expressions. Scary, Scary Human Facial Expressions

"To create a robot we are more likely to accept, life-like expressions are vital." That's the motivation that led scientists to build this robot, according to the New Scientist write up. It's an odd statement not only because it makes you wonder why life-like expressions is so crucial---are we planning to emotionally manipulate the ignorant masses using robotic faces?---but also because of how far they still have to go, judging from how difficult blinking looks. Ouch. And there's also the, uh, sound effects. It's a real feat of engineering---we're impressed by the way the robot's motors move under the skin like muscles---but maybe kooky jungle techno wasn't the best musical choice for giving the impression of humanity.