Realistically, though, I think there is something to be said for clear, no-bullshit communication. That doesn't necessarily mean it has to be rude, but if I had to pick between someone being blunt with me and someone lying to or misleading me, I'll pick blunt every time.
I agree absolutely, but then we're talking on a Wikipedia mailing list, so I think we probably qualify as geeks. ;)
The talk reported in the blog explains it quite well. Geeks are happy to add in the pleases and thank yous that they know were meant, so you don't have to waste time typing them. Non-geeks generally aren't. I prefer the geek way, but I think we're somewhat outnumbered.