It's useful; I shouldn't be too hard on it. I've just seen some FAR REACHING conclusions in the past that, in the end, were based solely upon the mirror test and a LOT of speculation on the part of the author, whether one who worked in the sciences, or popular writers, or whomever. That's why I give it a little extra criticism. But when used properly and interpreted with its limitations kept in check, it's a useful test.