One way to understand the power of Gestalts is to consider how you feel about controversial public figures. For example, do you have a strong opinion about the celebrities pictured here? Chances are you don't personally know any of them, but you still form strong Gestalts about them. Consider how this same process works for people you meet in person or online.
(Clockwise from top left) David Mepham/FilmMagic/Getty Images; James Devaney/WireImage/Getty Images; PBG/PA Photos /Landov