In On Shaking hands, Gardiner reflects on the handshake as a "brief drama" that reveals much about the participants. In an increasingly interconnected world where initial interactions often occur online before any physical meeting, what crucial elements of this "brief drama" are absent in the digital realm, potentially leading to misinterpretations or a less complete understanding of a new acquaintance?
1
The immediate physical presence and non-verbal cues (posture, eye contact) that accompany a handshake.
2
The subtle tactile communication of confidence, warmth, or reservation.
3
The shared physical act that can establish a basic level of trust and rapport.
4
All of the above represent potential losses in the transition to primarily digital initial interactions.