I think that's how society is going. A friend of mine, he's from Holland, he said its worse in the US than in Europe. Something about how in Europe they still have the idea of "acquaintance," and they have a few close people they call "friends," whereas over here we call everybody our friend and the term has become almost meaningless. Something like that.
As for why people are so fake...how could we be otherwise? Its not cool to have problem or intense feelings (only losers have those) and its not cool to open up to people. Its not cool to be troubled or needy or lonely...or...anything other than well adjusted and smile, have a nice day sort of game show host happy. That's my take on it.