Final answer:
Nonverbal communication significantly varies from one society to another and its interpretation can be influenced by cultural norms as well as factors like race, class, and gender. It is not of little interest to sociologists; in fact, it is a critical area of study that can differ vastly within and between societies.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nonverbal communication includes various forms such as facial expressions, gestures, and body language, and is a significant area of study within sociology. Nonverbal cues and symbols are heavily influenced by culture, which means that they can vary greatly from one society to another. For instance, a smile might generally convey happiness, but the context in which it is used can differ across cultures. Similarly, a thumbs-up gesture may be seen as a positive affirmation in the United States but is considered offensive in countries like Russia and Australia. The interpretation of nonverbal communication can also be affected by one's race, class, and gender. Therefore, it is incorrect to assume nonverbal communication is one-way or of little interest to sociologists.