Final answer:
It is false that North Americans generally keep a distance of between 0 and 1 1/2 feet when interacting with others; they prefer about an arm's length of personal space. The concept of personal space is culturally dependent and standing too close in North America may be seen as invasive.
Step-by-step explanation:
When communicating with coworkers and acquaintances, it is false that North Americans generally keep a distance of between 0 and 1 1/2 feet. Instead, many people in North American cultures prefer to maintain a distance of about an arm's length during face-to-face conversations, which is more than 1 1/2 feet. This concept of personal space can vary greatly among different cultures, and in some cultures, it is acceptable to stand much closer than what would be comfortable in North America.
When you pass an acquaintance at school, work, in the grocery store, or in the mall, the general rule is to greet them politely without invading their personal space. This might include saying "Hello" and perhaps asking a simple question like "How was your weekend?" but typically avoiding any physical contact. North Americans have fairly rigid rules about personal space, and an unexpected physical embrace or touch can be viewed with distaste.