Question

The public zone ranges anywhere above 6 feet and is where we are most comfortable keeping unknown others with no professional obligations. What does the "public zone" refer to in this context?

Answer 1

The "public zone" refers to the concept of personal space in a social setting, where we are most comfortable keeping unknown others with no professional obligations.

Step-by-step explanation:

The "public zone" refers to the concept of personal space in a social setting. It is the area surrounding a person, typically ranging above 6 feet, that we are most comfortable keeping unknown others with no professional obligations. This zone provides a sense of anonymity and reduces the feeling of accountability and self-awareness.

For example, when passing an acquaintance at school, work, in the grocery store, or in the mall, we may simply say hello and engage in trivial conversation without physically embracing or touching the person. In the United States, we have fairly rigid rules about personal space, and violating these rules by standing too close or touching someone without consent can be viewed with scorn or distaste.