I just found an article through Slashdot about some software being developed that can monitor phone conversations and provide you a score to display how much of a jerk you are being. The application, which is referred to as the “Jerk-O-Meter” will actually pop up the warning, “Don’t be a jerk!” if your attention strays or you seem to be losing interest in the conversation.
Conversely, keeping up your end of the conversation rewards you with the popup, “Wow, you’re a smooth talker.”
I find this funny as it is yet another case where scientists are trying to use software to improve our ability to interact socially off line.