>> " when you're smoking somewhere, and someone else is smoking, that's something you can physically talk to them about." Agreed. Just like if you've both had

>> " when you're smoking somewhere, and someone else is smoking, that's something you can physically talk to them about." Agreed. Just like if you've both had a leg amputated, you have something in common and can also strike up a conversation. But it's not a good reason to purposely cut your leg off. That's probably why you believe smokers to be some of the most friendly people you know - because they have something in common with you. Personally, most smokers I see around are pretty unfriendly. Drinking is better for lowering the barriers to social interaction IMHO without making everyone smell horrible and choke. Also a bit healthier. Also I'm sure it depends on where you live. In the UK the culture is very much anti smoking.