The Obligatory Apology Reflex
Humans in the Northwestern Archipelago appear to possess an unusual neural glitch.
When a collision occurs, a foot is accidentally compressed, or hot leaf-water is spilled onto their clothing chassis, the affected human will frequently produce the phrase:
“So sorry!”
Further investigation suggests this response is not an admission of responsibility.
In many cases, the human has clearly been the victim of the incident.
Instead, the apology appears to function as a biological shield designed to prevent a dangerous phenomenon known as “awkward social friction.”
The ritual is particularly common among humans who inhabit crowded urban environments, where personal space appears to be considered both extremely valuable and almost impossible to maintain.
Researchers remain uncertain why humans apologise when they have suffered the inconvenience.
Several theories have been proposed:
- They may believe politeness creates invisible protection fields.
- They may be attempting to confuse potential attackers.
- They may simply be unable to stop themselves.
Further research is required.
Field Note Recommendation
Should you inadvertently vaporize a local human’s umbrella, apologise immediately.
If the human apologises back, you have successfully achieved local social harmony.
Avoid further interaction until both parties have recovered from the politeness exchange.