The Facebook phenomenon
September 28th, 2009 by Linda Nuttall
While out shopping on the high street the other day, I couldn’t help raise a smile when overhearing a group of 40-something mums, shout to each other “I’ll facebook ya!”
It suddenly occurred to me that social networking, which I’ve always considered the preserve of educated professionals, students and office workers has gone mainstream. Even Coronation St has its own Facebook group, how long will it be before Emily, Rita and Norris swapping a gin ‘n’ tonic down the Rovers for a game of FarmVille on Facebook?
What started out as a way of keeping in touch with friends - and getting back in contact with old ones - has taken on a whole new remit. In my Facebook experience, I’ve started noticing whole generations of families ‘facebooking’ each other, kids, parents, grandparents and I’m sure I’m not alone in the sudden influx of friend requests from cousins, aunties and uncles. Maybe this is family values re-invented?
As Twitter celebrates its first entry into the Collins English Dictionary this month, I wonder if the social networking site will ever end up with such a mixed audience as Facebook?
Tags: Collins English Dictionary, Coronation Street, Facebook, FarmVille, twitter
September 28th, 2009 at 8:44 am
Spot on with regards to facebook. It has evolved to appeal to everyone, whether you want to play games, watch videos or keep in touch with friends.
Twitters far more limited remit appears to suggest it will remain more of a business ‘tool’ for the time being. However, it will be extremely interesting to see the innovations made over the coming years and to see if twitter aim for mass-market appeal in the that facebook has.
January 7th, 2010 at 12:44 pm
Hi just found your site while searching for The Facebook phenomenon! I have only just signed up to fb, this was after wondering what the deal was! I have found a few old mates on fb, so it is a very handy site to be signed up to, it is just amazing how big it has become.
I am looking for other sites to compere with fb, I do not want to rely on just one site for all my day to day activities.