Facebook is a social network founded in 2004 by four Harvard students. Originally, association in the Web site was restricted to the Harvard community, but later, membership branched out to specific colleges and companies. The innovative concept took a turn in 2006 and is now open to any individual at least 13 years of age. Remarkably, membership is in the millions!
So what’s so impressive about Facebook? For one thing, the network is free. For another, people have the opportunity to keep in touch with associates they haven’t spoken to in years (assuming they are also members). In addition, users can meet new acquaintances and maintain ongoing banter with old friends (kind of like what used to take place in many neighborhoods). The dialogue can be preset to private (meaning that other people are not supposed to see it), or the written conversation can be presented in a more public forum.
So what else can you do on Facebook?
Post pictures. Many users upload different pictures to place in albums for viewing. For example, one album may be of family photos, another can be of exciting vacations, while another might be of friends or classmates. One specific picture of your choosing will accompany chats each time you have something to say (e.g., Profile Picture). The photo can be changed as often as you would like or perhaps not even be there (in this case, a mystery silhouette pairs with your words).
Personal Interests. Besides information on the Profile Page, certain users also like to list their personal interests, sometimes as a way of connecting with others who share the same enthusiasm for a hobby, school, university, pass-time, etc. In this case, Community Page helps members connect. For instance, if you have a passion for knitting, you can converse with other knitters to exchange tips on yarn sales, patterns, and knitting Web sites. If you have a fondness for oil paintings, you can swap information about galleries, artists and auctions. Truly, the opportunities are amazing.
Okay, with most good things come not-so-good things. Posting personal information for everyone to see may not always be a good idea, and sometimes “private settings” may not be so private.
Facebook is trying to contain the outrage some users are feeling after learning that the social network is now sharing personal profile information with third parties. At this point, it may seem somewhat innocuous (as they are only sharing with sites like Yelp and Pandora). However, this might only be the beginning. Members have the option of negating this exposure by accessing the Privacy Settings and then editing: but even so, who knows?
Let’s face it, almost anything enjoyable has a list of pros and cons. A thought? If you are on Facebook or would like to give it a try, never divulge confidential data. This could be one way to keep in touch, share ideas, and maintain your privacy, as well.
Facebook? Yes, it can be entertaining. Hopefully, the network execs fully understand the importance of its members’ privacy (so users don’t do an about-face in participation!).
