Why is it that people think that forwarding a few e-mails now and then is "keeping in contact" with a person? It seems this happens in my family and occasionally my friends. First of all, I hate forwards. Secondly, a forward tells me exactly one thing: that someone pressed the Forward button. It doesn't tell me how you are or what's new in your life! I REALLY hate those forwards that say "if you don't send this back you're not my friend," yet the person who sends it to you is the type that never sits down and writes you an e-mail or calls you up on the phone. Yes, sending me a stupid pre-written chain letter proves you are my friend so much more than writing a real letter. I suppose this is a bit rantish but I'm just tired of it!
I think you may just happen to be in their Mailing List and they never give a second thought when Forwarding stuff... I get the same once in awhile then I email some of them and go: Hey!!!, what's up with you these days???...
Forwarding to your contacts is pretty much boarderline spamming. Personally I never do it and agree with you that its totally impersonal. What is the world coming to eh?
I think e mail has completely revolutionised our communication methods. It is brilliant and useful, but should not replace proper contact. Like most things it should be used with common sense to enhance our lives not detract from them.