Oh I would not disagree with you that there are hundreds of other users on FT that share your viewpoint on social interaction while travelling. I simply think that type of outlook is not a preferable one for society, or even the individuals themselves. What I am saying is it is a shame that people feel the need to be so closed off. We should not be afraid to engage the people around us, and that includes asking for a polite favour, or offering your neighbour a favour. At the same time we should be respectful if they are not willing to help.

An example is a recent AS flight I was on. I was assigned 2A, and my wife 1A. Of course I asked the person in 2C if they would like to switch with my wife for 1A so we could sit together. He was more than happy to comply, and didn't seem put out at all. In fact it seemed to me that it made him happier to be able to help us out. Of course we were happier as well.