I think it all boils down to our personality, and our surroundings in general. I don't think that everyone wants everyone to get along and to be all lovey dovey and happy. Hell, I certainly don't.
However, it's hard to say that everyone puts on masks. I would agree that most of us do, for whatever reason.
I also wouldn't say that it's as bleak a world as Toph describes it. If I hold a door open for someone, or treat someone respectfully, I'm not expecting anything from them; it's the right thing to do and it's something I would expect that others would do for me. Just like if anyone of my friends were to call me up right now and need help with something, I'd do my best to help them. It wouldn't be because I'd expect them to do something for me in return, but because I value things like friendship and loyalty. It's also not bad if they're willing to pay for a pint or two afterwards, but that's not why I'd help.
Then again, when I don't like someone, I really don't make an effort to hide that. My opinions on a person may change, and I may wind up liking someone I once didn't, but I don't think that's in the same vein.
What it really boils down to is that we all present ourselves in the way we'd like to be perceived. Some of us simply care more or less how we are viewed.
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Originally Posted by Pete
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