Today we learned “Edward Hall and the Concept of Space” in class. I think Edward Hall’s view of personal space is interesting, so after class, I searched more information about personal space on the Internet. The notion of personal space was introduced by Edward Hall. In his book, The Hidden Dimension (1966), he describes the subjective dimensions that surround each person and the physical distances they try to keep from other people, according to subtle cultural rules.
The definition of personal space is the region surrounding people which they regard as psychologically theirs. I think everyone wants a space that only belongs to him or her. In modern society, most people value their personal space very much. If their personal space is intruded by others, they may be uncomfortable, anxious, or angry. Sometimes, however, it is difficult to maintain personal space, especially in crowded places. For example, in a crowded train, elevator, or street, some people regard physical contact with strangers as a disturbance, but it is unavoidable.
In China, personal space is not valued as important as that in Western countries. In general, people tend to be close to each other when standing in a queue in China. I think people’s attitude towards personal space is influenced by their culture to some degree. Chinese admire harmony, so I guess they may stand closely to show their friendliness.
Yeah，I agree with you that people with different cultures may have different attitudes towards personal space. No matter what other people may say， I also think it is good to have our own principals of personal space.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. In my opinion, I think many Chinese people would prefer to be with others closely rather than be alienated from others. In fact, personal space is different in different people's eyes. It may depend on people's culture, knowledge, habits and lifestyles.
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ReplyDeleteI have heard about a theory named The Theory Of Wild Boar. In winter, wild boars have to get together to warm each other. The problem is that if they are too close, their stings will hurt each other and if they are too far away, they cannot warm each other. As a resualt, they have to find the most comfortable space. Just like wild boars, humanbeings also need space, which should not be too small nor too big. You associate it with different cultures. It is a fresh point of view
ReplyDeleteThe world is always changing. I think more people in China realize the importance of their privacy. A lot of my friends want to live in the single room. I think the situation in China will get better because more people want their personal space.
ReplyDeletePerhaps it is the pyschological nature of personal space that makes this space fluid and relative, depending on different contexts such as the people involved, the location, situation and so on. This is probably the reason for one to find a temporary violation of his or her personal space in a crowded place like the train during peak hours acceptable. However, if anyone stands within his or her personal space when there is plenty of room to stand and move about, he or she would feel uneasy and hence move away.
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