What exactly is EDC anyway?

I’ve been following this sub for a little while now, and I understand that EDC stands for Every Day Carry. I think my question is more philosophical than practical.

My pockets always have my wallet, a modest folding knife, and a handkerchief. I’m a dad and self-employed.

I see photos of pouches and bags and spreads of gear, and often I’m thinking, “wtf - why do you carry all that stuff?” Some of the kits make perfect sense, others are hard for me to wrap my head around.