Speaking of Time Being Out of Touch

Just as I posted my previous entry about Time and their self-absorbtion, one of their columnist criticizes FaceBook and Twitter users for "viral narcissim" (see 25 Things I Didn't Want to Know About You):

But it's just so stupid. Most people aren't funny, they aren't insightful, and they share way too much. Facebook is a loose social network; a "friend" on Facebook might translate to someone you'd barely recognize in real life.

No, most people aren't funny. But I don't think most people on FaceBook think it's a magic comedy pill either. They are who they are. Some people are able to open up online and good for them.

I was reluctant to join FaceBook and Twitter for the reason that I am introverted. Really, I am. Writing a blog or posting on FaceBook is cathartic writing. So what? I really think it's okay. If you want to overshare online, go right ahead. You may not get a job the next time because you overshared those copyroom pictures from the Christmas party, but that's your choice. For others, if you don't like to read oversharing, skip over it or stay off of FaceBook. It is what it is.

Also, isn't FaceBook a great way to keep some people at the right length? You can't possibly talk on the phone or meet with your aquantances enough to justify asking them to keep an eye out for an open job when you need it. FaceBook keeps you in touch without sucking all of your time into managing networks old-school style.  And isn't it nice to read that your friend eats tacos with a fork rather than having to burn through a two-hour phone conversation for the same info?

To write an article that is about as witty and inciteful as the list of TMI it criticizes proves my earlier point about the decline in quality of the media in general. Would you pay for that article? And before Claire Suddath or somebody else defends Time by comparing their articles to something like, say, my blog, they would do well to keep in mind this blog is something I do less than part time and without any income. In fact, it costs me to have my little cathartic corner of the Internet. There was a time when the media employed writers and editors who demanded high standards of quality and originality. Those days are long gone and I can't tell the difference between a professionally published magazine's article and something from a little snarky blog.

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