why dont people talk to one another?

Atually this is a symbol of over civilization. When you take time as a prime importance in life you are moving towards a progress is the concept. This is logically and technically correct. A talk which has importence and business value is ok, but a talk just for a timepass, chatting may creat a hindrence to others sometimes. So the sweet remedy, nothing else. You better migrate in our loving India you could enjoy this habit a great, will find so many unemployeds and workless people just available for only talk & talk. You even can think of opening a online forum where people will like your talk & will listen you but you have to pay for that "online money banner" to your hobby.

May they think same as you think. Just start talking from your side my dear freind.

I have to agree with you 100% percent on this, in my home country New Zealand, we are quite friendly. If we are crammed into a bus, no use just sitting there and staring at the people, we make conversations, get to know each other, and see each other next time if there is a next time.