by Jessica A. Tucker

Created on: December 29, 2010   Last Updated: December 31, 2010

Since the creation of Facebook, a world of internet users have curiously watched the evolution of this social networking empire. Many took to the trendy internet fad right from the start. What a great way to keep in contact with friends and family across the globe. Others were not so comfortable with the idea of sharing their personal information online. After while, many internet users that may not have been originally interested in Facebook, joined simply to stay in touch with family and friends already using the site. Now, many users still remain sceptical and use the site only to keep in touch with their Facebook contacts.  Others, seem to be almost taken over by the world of Facebook.  As status updates flash like stock market tickers across profile pages, smart phones, and message screens, millions of users flock to this site everyday to keep up with the daily chatter of their social network. 

Pros

The positive sides to Facebook are many, and most are very aware of them.  Of course, the greatest use of Facebook is keeping in touch with distant family and long lost friends through messages, status updates, wall posts, or even sending an online Poke.  Another positive to Facebook is how easily one can now share photos with their family and friends. Facebook when used properly, is also a great solution to online marketing for businesses, charities, organizations, and Causes. 

Cons

Although the positives to using Facebook are many, users are now seeing the other side of the curtain, so to speak. The negative side may even outweigh the positives for many Facebook users. Some, have chosen to even deactivate their Facebook account, experiencing with much frustration, how difficult it actually is to delete your information from Facebook. The list of negatives users are now finding, is great and growing. Privacy concerns surrounding Facebook and user information has to be the largest issue with the use of Facebook. 

The addictive nature of Facebook is also becoming a large issue among young people across North America. Facebook is everywhere and accessible to users anywhere, at any time, since the emergence of Facebook Mobile. One could easily spend hours a day flipping through miles upon miles of status updates or Friends profile pages. With this addictive side to the website comes another negative, the time that is being spent interacting with Facebook, whether for business, or pleasure. Where do we draw the line? When does Facebook use become a waste of time for a user?  LINK With proper use, Facebook can be harmless; however, when used improperly, or abused Facebook has the power to destroy.  Users need to remember that any information shared online, is posted for the world to see.  When used improperly, Facebook can affect friendships, relationships, and even employment.  

Facebook has taken over a nation. Now that we all have had a few years to watch the evolution of Facebook, users are beginning to see the many pros and cons that come alone with the use of this social network.  A website that began as a simple way for people to connect, has grown into a world of its own, Facebook. 

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