How have sites like MySpace, Facebook, as well as online forums, etc changed your view of community?

Question

I'm curious how friendships and your sense of community within these types of online sites compare w/ more traditional means of communication and formulating friendships. Can they even compare?

Answer 1

I find that these online community sites are good in two respects:
1. You can forge connections with new people based on shared interests. For example, connecting with people from your alma mater.
2. You can stay in touch with old friends and acquaintances more easily, especially when challenges of time and geography make it harder to see each other regularly.