1.2. Universal Gestures and Their Variations

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does a thumbs-up gesture represent in the United States?

   Hint

   Think about what feedback we give when we like something.

2. 2.

   In which context does the color red mean stop?

   Hint

   Think about what we see at traffic lights.

3. 3.

   What does the thumbs-up gesture mean in the U.S.?

   • A curse
   • Positive reinforcement
   • Indifference

   Hint

   Think about how you react when someone does something well.

4. 4.

   True or False: The color red universally means danger.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider cultural celebrations where red is used positively.

5. 5.

   Select a common gesture and research its meanings across three different cultures. Reflect on how misunderstandings could arise based on these differences.

   Hint

   Choose gestures that have starkly different meanings.

6. 6.

   Explore how cultural norms can impact one's perception of risk. Give two examples from different cultures.

   Hint

   Think about how your culture views risk in everyday life.