Oddbean

Also I'd argue it isn't really a general thing either. Plenty of older people 50s+ are just as bad or worse at this in my experience. Maybe not with a phone in their face, but equally awkward or bothered in public.

It's a skill. I think part of that skill must come from taking in interesting and beautiful things, so that you can make meaningful conversation with people. First, though, one needs a conversation starter and a bit of courage. That takes practice.

Not sure, as it's something I'm still learning. Some ideas, though: - Read a lot. Fiction, nonfiction, essays, and occasional news. Or if reading isn't always practical, podcasts and audio books do a pretty good job in the place of physical books. - Talk about meaningful things with your friends. Make connections. Think about how the movie you just saw relates to the essay you just read. - Engage in hobbies. Something that interests you can you can get excited about with other people. - Jog or garden or do something physical outside, that makes you attend to the weather, the skies, the seasons, and the natural world. - Ask questions and listen. - Laugh at other people's jokes, and at your own.