The "Body Language" Among Europeans

(Oxford University research psychologist, Dr Peter Colett, examined some of the differences in the "body language" among Europeans)

Dr Colett says that if we compare the way different Europeans nations use gestures, they fall into three major groups. The Nordic nations belong to the first group. These are the Swedes, Finns, Norwegians, and Danes. They use gestures very little. The second group, which includes the British, Germans, Dutch and Belgians use some gestures when they are excited, or want to communicate over long distances, or insult each other. The third group use gestures a lot to emphasize what they are saying or hold the other person’s attention. They are the Italians, Greeks, French, Spanish, and Portuguese.

The distance that separates one person from another − "personal space" − also varies between people of different nationalities. What is right for one nationality may be uncomfortable for another. People stand close enough to touch each other easily in such countries as France, Spain, Greece, and Italy. British zoologist, Desmond Morris calls this the "elbow zone". In the countries of East Europe such as Hungary, Poland and Romania people stand a "wrist zone", that is a little more distant. They are close enough to touch wrists. But in the Scandinavian countries, in Britain, Belgium and Germany people stand further away from each other − "the finger tips zone".

Ex 8. Read the text and identify the cultural layers each extract describes (artifacts, traditions, beliefs, values, norms, symbols). Discuss the peculiarities of the language and tradition of communication in the different countries. Use the vocabulary included into the Comments

to discuss them.

Social customs in different countries

(A businessman is talking about social customs in different countries. He is giving advice to a group of students how to behave abroad)

1. Australia

Conversation. If you are ready to establish rapport by making "small talk" before getting down to business, you will find that Australians tend to be direct and will often expect you to speak your mind. Appropriate topics of conversation include sports and tours you have taken while in Australia. If you choose to discuss politics or religion, be ready to banter. Besides enjoying your strong opinion, bantering is also considered a form of entertainment.

Punctuality. Punctuality is both respected and a basic social norm. If you are late, this fact will reflect negatively on you and your organization.

Public manners. When riding in a taxi in Australia, you will be expected to sit in the front passenger seat rather than in the back seat. A warning: the popular American "thumbs up" sign is considered to be an obscene gesture in Australia. Business dress is generally conservative.

Business entertaining. If you are in a pub, it is appropriate to take a turn "shouting for a round" (that is, paying for a round of drinks). When you are invited to a home, a gift, such as wine, candy, or flowers, is appropriate.

While dinner is served in the early evening hours between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., a late evening meal called "supper" is taken a few hours after dinner.