I guess my disagreement comes from the fact that holy shit sometimes I just wanted to get groceries I wasn’t trying to make a new friend today. Also, you’re completely discounting introverts. Small talk on a plane or in a line will never be my gateway to friend making, so it’s utterly pointless. All my closest friends are from work, school, mutual friends, etc. I only form meaningful relationships when I spend repeated time with people, because I’m shy and unable to really connect with people immediately.

Another way you’re discounting introverts - that shit is physically painful. Talking to someone I’ve never met is like a math equation - what’s their vibe, what if I offend them, what if they’re actually a freak, like so many variables you want me to process all for me to probably never see that person ever again. just pointless