However, this is an ancient practice with solid reasons behind it. In this short video, LMS Chairman Dr Joseph Shaw explains these and the difference that silence makes to the congregation's experience of the Mass.
This film is based on the FIUV Position Paper, "Silence and Inaudibility", which can be downloaded free for those who wish to explore the subject in more detail. The Position Paper is short (7 pages) and aimed at laymen and clergymen alike who wish to inform themselves about this aspect of the Extraordinary Form.