I agree, it is enlightening and very much a rewarding thing to do - striking up random conversations and generally being extroverted. BUT: I feel also takes a

I agree, it is enlightening and very much a rewarding thing to do - striking up random conversations and generally being extroverted. BUT: I feel also takes a considerable toll on those with more introverted worldviews. Now adays I'm a misanthrope - also I'm a social scientist: I see new people as almost a 'chore.' Getting them caught up with your groups lingo/stories/norms is akin to teaching a kid. Exerting that much effort into a 'new friend' is difficult for me to justify - especially when the only thing tying you to the new person is a whim or chance encounter. Making friends is great, it works well with all aspects of social life and breaks routines, but there's definitely real reasons why it isn't done at the same pace as one sees in college. When a typical jane doe moves into anomie (IE right after highschool, moving to a new place, new job) they're left to redefine themselves through the people they interact with. It's human nature to go seek new people and make new friends. In contrast - if one is rooted and knows what they like/who their friends are/the basic character makeup that they are attracted too, one has much less "drive" for us to get out and converse with new people. It's definitely a trend berthed from our culture. Japan demonstrates a different culture without this specific issue. China does too. Anyway!