So yeah

Why is it when you ask someone a point blank question they don't always give a straight to the point answer?

I bring this up as I asked someone a question in the hopes of getting some more insight into something that intrigues me. Now, I realize that not everyone has the time to go in depth with an explanation for some things. I do the same thing myself when people ask me questions about things. We all do it. Sometimes we don't have time to make the detailed explanation the person asking the question may want. We even refer them to other people or writings.

Now, often times this is not a big deal. Sometimes it is. I suppose the situation would depend on who is asking and why. If for instance you asked your parents about something the understanding is that they will answer it for you. We count on our parents for learning lessons.Same thing with teachers. We actually pay them for information and understanding.

Now, what should the boundaries be for someone you don't really know? Well, I suppose depending on the situation it can vary greatly. If you are calling customer service about something relating directly to you then of course you should get all the information available to you. If you are asking someone you don't know I think any time they give for your question is up to them. If they take at least a token effort to answer it that should be enough, right? Of course it is.

Now my reason for this particular line is this, I sent a series of questions to a scientific doctor, of some renown I might add, for some information. He did in fact take time from his day and work to answer them. Now, part of his answers were to refer me to some other people's work to gain a greater insight into my line of questioning. Did those referrals help with the insight I wanted? Actually yes they did.

Now while I admit I was hoping for a more direct answer I realize that was being selfish. I was hoping to monopolize this man's time. Kind of egotistical of me huh? Yeah it was, you can admit it, I did. What does that say about, not only me, but us a whole? I have no idea.

I do know that I appreciate this man's time and his willingness to share even a few moments of that time with me. So thank you doctor for your time and the information you provided. I will certainly go through it and hopefully get some of the answers I am hunting for.