Yes. There is so much talk about body language, that I have no idea why anyone would think it a good idea for the President of the United States not to stand tall and give a firm handshake according to OUR custom. I did see a documentary on how in a political meeting, the most important man enters last with his hand on the 'visitors' shoulder. It's a sign of control. I'll look for that video and post it one day. Super interesting & I think Trump follows those psychological rules because it's part of his somewhat narcissistic personality which is a must for someone in power.
I have to disagree with the majority. I see what Obama is doing as respect for Japanese tradition. This is the Japanese Emperor is it not? Same as when Abe or a Japanese dignitary visits America he will shake hands not bow as he is respecting the American tradition.
On the flip side to this debate. We had a Prime Minister who once dared to touch the back of Queen Elizabeth at an Australian royal function..merely to usher her some place as we gentlemen are want to do. Wow did the Brit and local monarchists come out in protest. "How dare this commoner manhandle our Queen". For the record Liz did not seem to mind. There was no royal back hander or anything.
In Japanese tradition, he wouldn't touch. The Japanese bow because they don't want to touch another person.
China may be approaching a tipping point. I listened to an interview with some think-tank guru whose expertise is Asia. He said China is feeling pressure from tariffs that have caused the Chinese economic growth to slow. That is one of the reason the Chinese are now pushing Hong Kong the way they are. Areas in western China are organizing unrest and want to follow Hong Kong's example of self-rule. China is stepping on Hong Kong to quell that unrest in addition to getting a tighter rein on the former British colony. He said it was also to show Taiwan that they cannot move further away politically from the PRC. China has been unstable for many years. That is why the government is sometimes so harsh--they want to maintain control.
Rethink your reply. Or at least look at the picture of Obama bowing while the Japanese Emperor is not bowing but shaking hands. That not touching explanation fails in the picture.
@Joe Riley That is absolutely true.....and no one can fix it but our own self. As I get older, it would be nice to think people would show up at my funeral without thinking I was a jerk.
Somehow, that phrase has a different ring to it, than the warm fuzzy feeling I thought it would have. Thanks though!! I'll look forward to seeing you there.
Seems more people rely on likability than as you point out the right attitude about what works best for America.