[phpisthebest]

>>is there a social/cultural difference in expectations of the interaction with people around us

For me, that is why I am glad automation is decimating the service sector. for the first time in years I was traveling so i decided to go into a fast food place so I could stretch my legs. I walked in, Ordered my meal on a Automated Kiosk, no one even around to talk my order verbally. Then when my order was ready someone called out my number and sat a bag on the counter. I took the bag and that was it, No interaction at all

It was the BEST experience getting food... I almost want to go in more because it had even less interaction than the drive thru.

[BaseballPhysics]

And I'm glad that, for those more introverted among us and/or find those social conventions difficult or tiring, that you have that option!