The Facebook Phenomenon

In amongst my circle of friends are Facebook naysayers. I find their innate suspicion of the social networking phenomenon intriguing.

Common arguments include; “I don't want all and sundry knowing the minutiae of my everyday life” or, “I actually have a life, I don't need this virtual pseudo-existence”.

Strong arguments, but I think their suspicion reveals more of them than they intend.

They agonise over whether to “add” someone, or whether to “delete” someone. It's simple with me, I always “add”. If someone wants to be my friend, regardless of whether or not we actually had/have a functional relationship in the real world, then so be it. Who am I to turn away the hand of friendship? (Although I draw the line at anyone who actually perpetrated juvenile violence against me, excluding my own sister). But I must admit even I'm tempted to delete those who indulge in gratuitous use of “text speak” in their status updates,i.e. Angie is avin a laff wit m8s n is lookin 4ward 2 l8r (;

It riles me. Speak properly. I know that you are, for example, a State Registered Nurse, and as such surely you must have better command of the English language?

The main and most accepted pro-facebook argument I can muster is that I'm not the most organised person and it ensures that I keep in touch with friends; and in turn encourages greater social activity away from the computer screen. Although I admit I am a Facebook junkie.

In defence of my over-utilisation of FB; I'm a Gemini, (and whether you believe in astrological stereotypes or not) my life is pretty much an open book. In the “real world” I happily share stories of my past experiences, (some admittedly more embellished for an audience) – anything for a laugh. This is because I love communicating and lack of human interaction makes me feel quite down. If I can amuse my friends with tales of romantic humiliation; I'm willing to make the sacrifice of some modicum of self-respect. Perceive me as you will.

Of course, I do have secrets.

However, whilst I'm happy to impart the odd snippets of dialogue on facebook, and this blog, there are certain things I'd never do. I'd never participate in “Location, Location” or any programme of that ilk, and I'd never let a TV crew or journalist into my own home. The sanctity of my domestic bliss is important to me. Even my closest relatives know they have to phone before descending upon me (or they leave a message on my wall to warn me!). I guess boundaries of privacy vary from one person to another.

Some of the warmest, friendliest people I know are suspicious of facebook; and I wonder why this is? To be self-confessional, open and friendly is viewed with scorn and disapproval. I understand the appeal of the concealed – the theory that a woman is more attractive when modestly dressed and close-lipped. But I'm of the opinion that often the quietest amongst us are often quiet for a reason. Because they are boring bastards.