Its a tool like anything else. You make of it what you wish.
I'm a tool.
The Internet's a tool, period. Unfortunately, people have turned it into a substitute community.
Actually, there's nothing wrong with that -- provided people have similar interests or ideas. Which is why I like Free Republic. I can see the value in Facebook for keeping in touch with mutual friends or groups. But without a binding agent, these websites are pointless.
Why do I need to announce every time I'm having dinner? I'd at least charge someone to see it.