Facebook is a way for people to interact with other people, and these interactions would not be taking place without Facebook. Yes, they have secret algorithms to addict you. They decide which people you will interact with, what kind of news you will receive, and they censor conservative voices. That’s all true. But, in spite of all that, a huge, valuable service is being performed.
I post something on Facebook. John and Richard give me a like. Nancy makes a comment. I reply to her comment. John replies to my comment. I reply to his. He laughs. Other people observe but don’t say anything. We have all enjoyed a snippet of a conversation that raised our spirits. It’s not the same as being physically present and hearing the voice and seeing the face and hearing the laughter, but a non-trivial amount of information and vibes are being exchanged.
That’s invaluable! That’s communication that would never otherwise happen with people you wouldn’t even know. I know Facebook sucks, but I just can’t quit it.
This post went on Facebook first. Now I am putting it on my blog, which nobody reads, but I keep it up as a matter of principle. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube have stolen the eyeballs away from the blogs, but I am here, have been for fourteen years. I’m doing it for my great great grandchildren.