Includes bibliographical references (p. 233-234) and index.

"Before you raise your hand to signal the waiter, extend your thumb to hitch-hike, or flash the "O.K." sign with thumb and forefinger, STOP! Think of where you are and exactly what you are trying to say - otherwise you could create an international incident. Remember when President Bush thought he was flashing the "V" for Victory sign to cheering Australians? (See inside.)

Exploring the ins and outs of body language from head to toe, this newly revised and expanded edition of Roger Axtell's indispensable guide takes you all around the world of gestures - what they mean, how to use them, and when to avoid them. This latest edition includes:
Updates about the 200 most popular gestures and signals - and dozens of new examples
New sections covering special gestures - from American Sign Language and tai chi to flirting and kissing
Information to guide you through gestures country by country - from Switzerland to Japan, Nigeria to the Netherlands
Amusing anecdotes and helpful hypothetical scenarios." (Book Cover)

CONTENTS

Preface

Acknowledgments

Introduction

1. The Power of Gestures
The Science of Gestures -- Gestures Are Important -- Conclusion

2. The Most Popular Gestures
Greetings -- Farewells -- Beckoning -- Insulting Gestures -- Touching -- The "O.K." Sign -- Thumbs-Up Gesture -- "V" for Victory -- Vertical Horns, or "Hook 'em Horns"

3. Special Types of Gestures
American Sign Language (ASL) -- Taichi -- Flirting -- Kissing -- A Challenge to Readers

4. Gestures: Heads to Toe
Head and Face -- Eyes -- Ears -- Nose -- Cheeks -- Lips and Mouth -- Chin -- Arms -- Hands -- Fingers -- Legs and Feet -- Full Body

5. The Ultimate Gesture

6. The Innocent Abroad's Shortlist

7. Country-by-Country Listing
Europe -- Middle East and Africa -- Pacific and Asia -- Central and South America -- United States and Canada

Additional Reading

Index