Chapter 18

Chapter Eighteen was about the use of nonverbal communication. It stated that our actions are more important than our speech. This makes sense because what we do (our actions) are closely tied with our feelings and emotions. We are bound to act truthfully in accordance with our thoughts, while speech can be falsified. Also, nonverbal communication is extremely important while dealing with the language barrier. People around the world may not be able to communicate using their voices, but they can with their body language. Nods, pointing, handshakes, hugs, etc. are all ways to show your feelings towards another person without verbally communicating.

There are three important dimensions in nonverbal communication that help people to express their feelings. The book, "50 Ways to Understand Communication", states that the first dimension requires little definition (liking or disliking). I don't really understand what this dimension means, because the book does not explain it clearly. My guess would be that you give off a first impression with your actions. This could be the way you look at someone or motion towards them. Obviously refusing to shake hands would be a negative action and would display the fact that the person refusing the handshake does not like the other person or has negative feelings towards them. A more relaxed, casual attitude makes this dimension important so that the other person can succumb to their true feelings through their actions. The second dimension is dominance. Dominance is the difference between a controlling and a submissive attitude. An example of this dimension would be if someone rolled their eyes or glared at you. These actions would portray their snobby reputation. Responsiveness is the third and final dimension of nonverbal communication. This would include the awareness of others actions and the responses to these actions.

Facial expressions, gestures, and body language are three ways of communicating these feelings. Commercials are a very popular way of advertising in today's world. Listening to a radio commercial is not nearly as convincing as watching a commercial on the television when you can see the actor or actresses facial expressions and gestures. Even if the T.V. was on mute, people would probably be more convinced to buy something than they would if they listened to a commercial on the radio. Nonverbal communication is very significant in today's society. People can say whatever they want to, but what they do is what is most important.