This article isn't about Facebook so much as it is a commentary on the effects of new technology on the evolution of social norms.
I'm sure when the telephone was invented people had similar complaints. As we develop new technology we must also develop new etiquette for it's use.
Facebook is modeled after a very childish model of "I'll just share everything with the world". But now you have everyone from future mates to HR departments checking people's profiles and under that scrutiny the current model doesn't stand up well.
You want to invent a Facebook killer all you need to do is figure out a way for people to share everything they do on Facebook while only giving select "friends" access on an item by item basis.
Also figure out how to make this really easy, fast, and friction-free.
* never look at the profile of someone you're interested in.
* never look at an ex's profile.
* I prefer my own profile page over the "Home" page.
If you absolutely have to look at the profile of someone you're interested in, get the information you need and get out. Don't look at any pictures whatever you do! The result will always be bad!
A helpful question to battle jealosy/envy when you do run across something unsavory:
"Why would these two people be talking on facebook? Why aren't they just talking on the phone or something? They must not really be that close, since they're talking on facebook after all..."
But all the useless talk that make up 90% of the facebook experience... it's stupid the author is right there.
