What is an "illusion of a relationship?" If you think of someone and appreciate the little bit of their life story they shared on Facebook, is that an illusion? After all, that's what relationships in real life are built on as well: telling each other what happened at work, about that new restaurant you went to, the joke you heard, the stupid thing your kid did. Facebook is a pretty good vehicle for doing those things over distance.

> If you think of someone and appreciate the little bit of their life story they shared on Facebook, is that an illusion?

Whatever it is, it’s not a substitute for real two-way interaction. Meaningful relationships don't survive on impersonal status updates broadcast to a general audience.

If it involves communication back and forth (e.g. telling each other what happened at work) that’s something. If it’s scrolling passively through status updates or photos, or posting updates on yourself to nobody in particular, it’s junk food.

I agree. If you just want to keep tabs on people, that’s what Christmas cards or family newsletters are for.

That sounds like an acquaintanceship, not a close friend.

All my close friends, I direct message them almost everyday.