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