Understanding Russia: Smiling, Touching and Jokes

Vladimir Zhelvis, Professor of Linguistics and author of "Xenophobes Guide to the Russians", explains the difference in Russian and American social interactions. While Americans smile during a friendly greeting, Russians only smile when there is a good reason to. Further, Russians do not have a personal space bubble like Americans. So huddle close to ask that personal question and then slap them on the back after telling that joke that will hopefully make them roar with laughter.