Facebook raises concerns for certain individuals.

Numerous complaints have surfaced regarding Facebook. Here are some notable ones:

1. The platform primarily attracts an older audience, especially Baby Boomers. Many people have shared this sentiment with me, and I find it likely true, particularly among my peers (I’m 67). This demographic focus could potentially stunt the platform’s growth and exacerbate societal divides (as if more were needed).

2. In contrast, Instagram and TikTok appeal to a younger crowd. Facebook’s acquisition of Instagram has led it to mimic the content and features of TikTok, leaving its future uncertain as it navigates these changes.

3. Although Facebook’s current strategies have shown some success, platforms like Instagram and WhatsApp, which Facebook did not create, are being imitated by others. According to reports from the NYT, Facebook has lost much of its innovative spirit since 2012.

4. Mark Zuckerberg appears fascinated by the concept of the “metaverse,” described as:

   > The metaverse refers to an immersive and persistent three-dimensional virtual realm, shared with many users, that spans various digital platforms and merges with the physical world, where people can shop, work, play, and socialize in real time.

   This raises questions about the future of its older user base, who may not be digital natives.

5. There is significant governmental interest in investigating Facebook (or Meta) concerning antitrust, security, and confidentiality matters.

All these factors lead me to ponder the future of Facebook and the fate of those for whom it is a significant aspect of their lives.

Complaints beyond corporate issues…

Years ago, William Kennedy highlighted troubling aspects of Facebook, many of which remain unresolved or have worsened. Here are his top ten concerns, listed in descending order of severity:

10. Facial Recognition — Uploaded photos contribute to Facebook's extensive database. Kennedy noted that AI algorithms match public data with our images.

9. Continuous Location Tracking — If location services are enabled, Facebook can track your whereabouts. This raises concerns about privacy. The Messenger app facilitates easy tracking, and some individuals frequently update their status, often oversharing personal details.

8. Negative Impact on Well-being — Heavy social media users often experience lower self-esteem and poorer mental and physical health, according to studies from Yale. The tendency to compare oneself to others on Facebook can lead to feelings of inadequacy.

7. Creation of Echo Chambers — While this can have both positive and negative effects, it has contributed to the proliferation of “fake news.” Even Zuckerberg has committed to filtering out misleading content on the platform.

6. Influence on Eating Disorders — A small study indicated that frequent Facebook users among college women were more likely to report disordered eating. Another study found that girls who browsed Facebook photos often expressed body dissatisfaction. As a former college educator, I can easily see how this could occur.

5. Heightened Loneliness — Facebook can exacerbate feelings of loneliness by constantly reminding users of their social shortcomings. Studies suggest that it can lead individuals to feel excluded.

4. Extensive User Profiling — Facebook continuously analyzes user data and employs predictive analysis, often targeting those susceptible to advertising or conspiracy theories.

3. Political Censorship — Opinions vary on this issue. Facebook has faced criticism for not reporting atrocities in authoritarian regimes, while simultaneously, political misinformation proliferates on its platform.

2. Data Monetization — Facebook sells user data and often encourages users to share more information, sometimes unknowingly.

1. Constant Monitoring — The platform seems to know more about you than you realize, even keeping tabs on your posting habits.

Yet, many individuals remain fond of it.

A church-related site discussed why some people cherish Facebook, and these reasons resonate with many secular users as well.

It serves as a connection point and fosters the creation of new friendships. This is particularly significant for the aging population, which comprises a large segment of Facebook users.

Some appreciate the platform for lively discussions and engagement with others, finding humor and even ministry opportunities there. Users may also see it as a way to promote their blogs and written content, taking advantage of advertising and group features.

My personal journey with Facebook…

I first ventured onto Facebook in 2008 while attempting to promote a book that struggled to gain traction. My publicist was astonished that I wasn’t on the platform, insisting that I create a Facebook profile immediately. Initially, I hesitated; being introverted and private, the idea felt daunting. However, the publicist insisted that a social media presence was essential for book promotion.

In my late teens, I had been part of a religious commune (a trend during the late 60s/early 70s) that I later identified as a fundamentalist cult. While some of my old friends wouldn’t classify it that way, I believe the evidence supports my view.

Ultimately, I created a Facebook profile. While some visitors engaged with my writing project, many former acquaintances from my past, who carried over the religious fervor of my youth, began sending friend requests and posting bizarre religious content, which embarrassed me immensely.

In just two weeks, I was found. It was a jarring experience, leading me to delete my account and vow never to return.

Almost, that is. After retiring in 2018, I took up Jazz bass and wanted to join groups focused on my musical interests. I thought I could learn a lot from them, so I decided to give Facebook another shot.

This time, I planned to use minimal personal information, adopting a different name and slightly altering my age. I even considered using a separate email.

Yet, Facebook identified me anyway! I was temporarily barred for providing inaccurate information. Reluctantly, I surrendered and provided my real details.

The outcome? The groups were decent, and I engaged with fellow members about amps and bass guitars, as expected.

However, without a page or product to promote, the platform began showing me connections from my past, including some of the old acquaintances I had hoped to avoid. How did they know?

Reflecting on my son…

My son, a software engineer, and I have discussed Facebook over the years. While I’m unsure if he has an account, he once warned me about the platform's lack of security and its potential to lead users into unwanted territory.

I encountered a poignant observation that captures a significant issue with Facebook: “If the product is free, you’re likely the product,” and this sentiment holds true for Facebook.

A concluding thought…

I harbor significant concerns regarding privacy issues linked to Facebook. However, there’s an even more alarming consideration, which also applies to Google; you can judge for yourself. It could be the most pressing challenge associated with Facebook and other social media:

> The primary issue is that Facebook and Google create massive feedback loops that reinforce users’ existing beliefs. In a world where biases are constantly validated, individuals become vulnerable to misinformation, propaganda, and manipulation.

A final personal note (for those curious).

Having shared my personal experience, what did I do during my second attempt at Facebook? After just a week, I suspended my account. For me, the cost doesn’t outweigh the benefits.