@viciousviscosity yeah, i never understood total strangers taking a sudden interest in me except when they want something (i.e. here comes a sob story asking for money).

i usually mutter a "hey" as a greeting if approached and keep walking. most people are busy, why would you walk around like it's sesame street and people just all know your name?

@viciousviscosity i believe that can be attributed to some people wanting to project an overly-pleasant demeanor in order to subtly control you. i read a psych article about this very thing a few years ago, interesting stuff.

simple rule: total stranger = hi/hey/hello.