Unless you have migrated to Saturn within the last year, you have been acquainted with the nationwide campus virus, formally known as Facebook (click here to visit the Web site). This socially centered website has spread from campus to campus throughout the U.S.

Some say “Facebook” is a dating service. Others describe it as a chronic habit, that replaces studying, watching T.V., and normal human activity. In actuality, “Facebook” is a website for college students to network through profiles, groups, and pictures.

One of the aspects of “Facebook” is the groups. “People against slow-walkers on the sidewalk,” is just one of the many hilarious groups on the hugely popular “Facebook” website. There are no meetings, or events held for most of these groups. Most of the members of “Facebook” groups don’t even know each other. So what makes people want to join? Groups on the “Facebook” give us all the chance to express ourselves.

However, some people are in groups that contradict themselves. Is it acceptable to be a member of the “Sex Toys” group, and a member of the “Jesus Saves” group? Does this mean that you are a hypocrite, or does it say you just joined the group because you were invited, or your friends are in it?
Or what about people who are in groups they don’t belong in. MSU student Alex Daniels says “I think its stupid. People need to come to terms with who they are. If your not cute, get outta the cute group.”

Overall the groups on “Facebook” display facets of student’s personalities. Depending on the types of groups you join, you can convey a personality to a viewer whom you don’t even know. If I am a member of “I dress better than you!” is it ok for someone to view me as conceited? Similarly, if I am a member of, “We love the “Lord,” is it because I want viewers to see me as religious? Just think, if no one could see what groups you join, would you still join them? Well overall “Facebook” and its groups are entertaining, but when engaging in this online community we all need to ask ourselves how we want to be viewed, and what we value.

Jessica Haynes and Kim Walker

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