The social networking dilemma is real, and it will grow larger as people become more connected with future technological developments and globalization. Social network designs are altruistic, but they fundamentally violate individuals’ privacy, either by relation or association, regardless of the ability to be able to block contacts from new users and people already networking on the sites. The worst, in my opinion, is Facebook. The design is fantastic, and it is really great for networking with friends and family. The downside is the unwanted contact.
Here is an extreme example of a murder by a former lover.
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2134499/murder_by_facebook_or_social_networking.html?cat=7
All social networking sites should allow all invitations from their site to be blocked if wanted. The social networking sites make money off advertising, and they should not be promoting spam that is unwanted to individuals who have not willingly sought out their sites. The current set-up assumes that individuals want to network with people and have their lives displayed for profit on the Internet. If someone has not joined and they are receiving invitations to join, it is spam.
I agree with you. I just do not want people’s rights unjustly violated. There is great potential for social networking sites and applications in future technological developments, but the current designs of many of the sites is a threat to people’s safety and privacy.
If I had a nickel for each time I came here… Great post!