When two persons are engaged in a dialog, the gap between them can have a major impression on the character of their interplay. Edward T. Corridor, an anthropologist and cross-cultural researcher, recognized 4 distinct “social distances” that folks keep in numerous conditions. The space of ten toes between two individuals speaking falls inside Corridor’s “public distance” zone, which ranges from 12 to 25 toes.
Public distance is usually utilized in formal settings, equivalent to enterprise conferences, lectures, or public speeches. At this distance, individuals can keep a way of privateness whereas nonetheless having the ability to see and listen to one another clearly. It additionally permits for a level of ritual and respect, as persons are not shut sufficient to the touch or interact in intimate dialog.