The Ultimate Body Language Book

the group well, we still maintain a greater distance from them so we can easily address all of them and
keep everyone in our field of view. This could be an evolutionary adaptation since a large group could
easily contain rogue defectors. By getting too close to an audience we risk surprise attack which is why
we feel more comfortable with a wider buffer. Then again, it could simply be a function of judging the
efficacy of our speech by measuring the audience’s reaction.
Chapter 4 – Space and Territory
Culture And Personal Space
Personal needs for space are largely based on environment and culture. For example, those in Latin and
Japanese cultures require less space than say Nordic cultures and this is based simply on the raw
density in which the people reside. Personal spaces needs are therefore not inherent, but are instead
cultural and learned. Cultures that require more space than average include Australians and Mongolians
whom are the least densely populated independent country of the world. Cultures that require less space
include: Italians, Japanese and Indians since the generally inhabit greatly populated countries. More to
this, is the fact that those who grew up in more rural settings such as farmers require even more space
than those who grew up in cities.
Here is a breakdown of cultural norms by region:
[A] North Americans and West Europeans. Talk at a distance where outstretched arms might touch at
their fingertips.
[B] Russians. Talk at a distance whereby the wrists of outstretched arms touch.
[C] Latin Americans, Italians and Arabs. Talk at a distance where the elbow could touch the body of the
other.
Just by knowing that these differences occur affords us a greater understanding and tolerance of other
people across cultures which can allow us to treat guests appropriately or give us hints about what we
can expect from our host country when traveling. Another factor that controls personal space
preferences are environment in nature. Crowded pubs or malls, or even elevators, produce a different
set of expectations in all people despite their cultural preferences. Even rural inhabitants know that a
full five foot buffer, or greater, is not always possible. Gender also plays a role where females generally
prefer a larger buffer between themselves and strangers especially when that stranger is male and
conversely tolerate and sometimes even appreciate smaller buffers between close female friends. Some
trains for example are specially designated to only carry female passengers to prevent men from enter
their personal space especially by men. This luxury guarantees women the safety and privacy routinely
enjoyed by men. Men, on the other hand, will generally stand further away from other men then the
norm, and permit women to stand closer.
Chapter 4 – Space and Territory
Personal Space And Country Folk
As mentioned, city people require less space than those living in more rural settings. It’s easy to tell if
someone is from the city or country by how they choose to greet each other. Waving is commonplace in
the country because it can be done at great distance. Neighbours, or passers-by separated by several
hundred yards, or more, cannot afford to extend hands for a handshake, nor do they require it. A simple