An Explanation of Proxemics, The Science Behind the Human Need for Personal Space

Vox editor Phil Edwards took a look at the work of anthropologist Edward T. Hall and his informative science behind the human and cultural use of space. Naming the science “Proxemics“, Hall described the concept of personal space in his books The Hidden Dimension and The Silent Language.

Imagine if you could not only understand but diagram all the awkward little moments that make up a typical day. Edward T. Hall did just that. He created proxemics, the study of personal space. An anthropologist by training, he believed his new field could aid everything from intercultural communication to office design, and his books, like The Hidden Dimension and The Silent Language, introduced a new way of thinking about the world.

Lori Dorn
Lori Dorn

Lori is a Laughing Squid Contributing Editor based in New York City who has been writing blog posts for over a decade. She also enjoys making jewelry, playing guitar, taking photos and mixing craft cocktails.

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