Word, you hear me?

Listening isn't merely an audible act such as hearing words. Listening requires actually comprehending and processing what the other person is saying. In a world where actual conversation is diminishing in an era of laptops, smart phones, tablets, etc many are not actually speaking when there is instant messaging, texting or emailing. Yes, the written word is becoming more popular, but does that mean that all etiquette for the spoken word should be tossed out the window? Furthermore, many of us really don't know a conversation in which we are not guilty of interrupting someone or getting cut off ourselves, at least once or twice in our lives. Not saying that we do or don't do it intentionally, but let's face it every one of us has had exciting news that we just cannot wait our turn to get out or has an interesting antidote to add to a story some one else is telling. So then, where is the line of over zealous and just plain old rude? 

Its pretty blatantly obvious when people turn the conversation in a completely different direction from what I was discussing or talking about that they were not listening to a thing being said. Not to say that the head bobbing and obligatory sighing accounts for someone actually listening to what you  have to say either, but you have to give that person props for at least faking it and giving you the faux impression that they care to hear what you have to say. Obviously I am making the assumption, that people who interrupt or change topics a) don't care what you have to say or assume b) that what they have to say is better, funnier, smarter than what you are bringing to the conversation. So then is it safe to speculate that this rudeness in everyday encounters is sprinkled with a hint of narcissism? And even if we gave these people the benefit of the doubt that there is no malice or ill intent to them just not listening, then what makes them think it is socially acceptable or that others are not doing the same unto them? Are people just going around talking just to be heard and not listened to? Do we just like to hear the sound of our own voice and we really don't care if others are listening? I mean think about this blog for example, I have opinions on a matter & want to discuss it...I don't know if any one will care or even read it so then am I really bothered by the lack of listening happening in the world? 

Also one has to think that the lack of listening is linked to lack of intelligence because no matter who you are conversing with if there is any meaning to the conversation you are most likely going to be taking away something from the conversation, but if you are so wrapped up in getting what you need said out, and not caring what the other person has to offer, then they are just an innocent bystander to bear your monologues and not a friend, colleague, family member, or acquaintance.

What impact could they have in your life if you aren't gaining anything by talking to them? Sure not everything will be quantum physics, but even hearing a mundane story about getting stuck in traffic has some level of impact on you (whether it be to not take that route home later today or to appreciate the less stressful morning you had or to just know more about what someone you care about went through or did) 
Any and all conversation means something, otherwise it would be sound effects and not words. I just wonder what causes people to not listen, it can't merely be that they are too busy to listen because there are far too many advance ways for people to multi task nowadays. Unfortunately, I just don't think many people can say they actually listen when others talk as opposed to just hearing the words coming out of their mouth...check 1, 2, 3 check...hello is this mic on? Can you hear me in the back?