Dear in a letter

[Qiutian]

Why are you supposed to put "Dear (name)," as a start to a letter? Most of the time when I'm writing a letter or email they are not someone dear to me. I would feel more comfortable simply starting with their preferred title like "Dr. (Name)," rather than start with the word dear.

 

[teechar]

Hello, and welcome to the forum.

Why are you supposed to put "Dear (name)," as a start to a letter? Most of the time when I'm writing a letter or email they are not someone dear to me.

It is considered polite and is standard protocol.

I would feel more comfortable simply starting with their preferred title like "Dr. (Name)," rather than start with the word dear.

No, don't. That would be considered impolite or even antagonistic.
Even in informal correspondence where "Dear" is not used, people start off with such words as "Hello" or "Hi".

 

[Charlie Bernstein]

Right.

Don't use Dear for an email, but do use it for written letters. It's a standard form and does not suggest intimacy. Even if you're writing to an enemy, use it.

It's a very old tradition that has not evolved along with other changes in English. So enjoy using it. It's like taking a quick little trip in a time machine.