Something Instead of Nothing.

Why do people talk? Seriously, most of the time words and ideas we share only get us into trouble or create controversy and meaningless arguments.

I like Chuck Klosterman's list of why he continued to answer questions in his interview for that Norwegian book. Here is his list written in my "Pearl-ized" version:

1. People believe they have something worthy of contributing - so much so at times that they tell everyone else to shut up so they can talk. Most of the time whatever they thought was so important wasn't important at all. I could've lived just fine without ever hearing what comes out of some people's mouths.
2. While many of us talk without it being a formal, professional, paid job, we talk because we feel obligated to talk. If someone doesn't say anything, they look stupid. If someone doesn't respond or contribute anything, they don't know what's going on, or they don't care. Choosing to just stay silent is risky business.
3. It is also true that people talk just to be noticed and listened to. They just need to be able to talk and get things off their chests and have someone be there to hear it all and take it in.
4. People talk because they like to. For many, talking could probably be considered a hobby because they do it so often and with such vigor. They have nothing better to do than sit around and talk about everything and everyone.
5. People talk because it is polite to respond when questioned. While this is possible, all of the other reasons are much more likely. I don't think there are very many genuinely polite and nice people in existence. When people talk they usually have something to gain from it; they aren't just being cordial and offering their opinion and thoughts for nothing.
6. Responding and talking are instincts. I agree with Klosterman in that this is probably the most likely reason for why people open their mouths in the first place. When someone talks to me, it is almost automatic for me to say something back. I can't help it - even if all I can mutter is "Mmmhmmm." It's like taking turns.. Someone talks to you and takes their turn, and now it's yours. Speak, child.