Because you were so kind...
One of the best things to do is to sit and watch people. Resturaunts, parks, trains, buses... individuals or small groups it can be intriguing witnessing how others react to differently in the same surroundings. So yes, I notice people. As I am watching I begin a head to toe assessment... hair style, clothing, accessories... do these material assessments match the stereotypical persons reaction to something in a way I may think they should have acted. The longer I have to watch, the more I can conclude.
As far as contempt, sorrow, elation to what other are doing... I don't feel anything. But usually I am witnessing very mundane actions which I find can tell a lot a bout people.