>This is a false economy though - part of being able to participate in society is having a range of acceptable small-talk topics... Which is fine, I just choos

>This is a false economy though - part of being able to participate in society is having a range of acceptable small-talk topics... Which is fine, I just choose to opt out of that particular topic. Have you heard the joke about the vegetarian marathon runner? He never knows which one to brag about first. Seriously I agree being prepared to discuss a variety of topics is a good idea but it's something within the confines of politeness I can be honest about. If someone asks "Oh did you hear Shania Twain got a new puppy?" I can honestly say no I don't keep up with her and leave it at that. I'm happy to talk dogs, just not Shania. We can always find something else to talk about.