A handshake is a good example: when you go give one to someone, you don't actually touch them, you extend your hand and wait for their explicit (if non-verbal) consent.
As for patting backs, do avoid doing so. Many of us don't like it even if it's totally non-sexual.
> "As for patting backs, do avoid doing so. Many of us don't like it even if it's totally non-sexual."
...and many of us do like being patted on the back (non-condescending of course).
Perhaps in the future, we will all have to work in an environment where no touching of any sort is allowed, ever, but I can't help thinking that would be a step backwards.
As for patting backs, do avoid doing so. Many of us don't like it even if it's totally non-sexual.