It's being social (small talk). Otherwise you would just be anti-social and rude. But seriously, a few great friends are better than loads of medium to low grade friends. I have many, many acquantainces that I enjoy being around, but I know they are aquantainces and that's it. I can have fun with people that I don't know well, but I am very picky about who I choose to depend upon and trust with all my heart. By the way, I only have about 4 friends like that, and one is way out ahead of the crowd.