Man: … we were at the beach the other day, and near where we were, there were some people bungee jumping from a crane. It was terrifying. I wasn't game to look.

Woman: Bungee jumping! That's great.

Man: Do you think so? I think it's insane. I don't know how people can enjoy being … terrified.

Woman: It's not that bad. It's fun. You should try it. It makes you feel alive. In fact, next week I've got a jump organised with a couple of friends of mine, if you want to come …

Man: Me? Are you crazy? No way. I don't need that kind of a thrill. I don't need to be terrified to feel alive! I just don't get it ...

Woman: Get what?

Man: This constant excitement that people seem to need these days. You know, it starts with children, being bombarded with "entertainment" and over-stimulated with console games, TV, video on the Internet, and disaster movies – and then they grow up and get into extreme sports. People start to expect this, to be continually excited. They find everyday life tedious and boring, so they are constantly searching for bigger thrills. And the fact is, these extreme sports can be really dangerous.

Woman: Well, sports have always had an element of danger. I don't think they are more dangerous now than they were in the past. I mean, look at things like car racing, or bullfighting, or even skiing. Thousands of people must break their legs every year skiing!

Man: Well, yes … but only a very small percentage of the number of people who go skiing every year. You have to keep everything in perspective.

Woman: People who participate in any sport know that there's always a risk involved. When I went canyoning in Switzerland, I was well aware of the risks involved, but it was such an amazing experience. I mean, you can't become obsessed with safety, otherwise you wouldn't ever be game to go out your front door! And then where would you be? You take a risk when you jump into the local swimming pool …