[ChrisMac]

"For their part, the British have what House calls the "etiquette of simulation". The British feign an interest in someone..."

Or sometimes you're making small talk with someone because you actually are interested in them, and just want to keep the first minute or two of the conversation light for whatever reason. Maybe you haven't seen them in a while and do want to catch up on really general things, or the weather really has been odd lately, or you can't think of anything to say right away and having some stock questions gives you a chance to get your bearings.

Just because it's a bit formulaic and routine doesn't mean all small talk is insincere.

[mdda]

There's also the aspect of accents. Which is less applicable in America (IMHO). More small-talk = more exact understanding of where someone is coming from (in all senses).

And that's why I prefer NYC : I prefer people to listen to what I have to say, rather than rate me based on my cultural baggage...