Lots of Facebook Users Like the ‘Like’ Button
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What Happened:
The world is a rough, unkind place—and folks say it’s growing more cynical and crass every day. Some experts believe we’re getting meaner: We yell at each other in line, make obscene gestures on the highway and insult complete strangers online.
So how does one explain the appeal that Facebook’s tiny “Like” button—that ubiquitous thumbs-up sign—has had on our culture?
In two years, Facebook’s “Like” option has become practically synonymous with Facebook itself. Clicking the button—or receiving a “Like” for one of our posts—reminds us of the simple joy that comes from complimenting someone or receiving a compliment yourself. Also, it’s proof that a little positivity can be a good thing.
Says Salon.com’s Mary Elizabeth Williams on Facebook’s “Like” function: “In its nearly two years of existence, the Facebook ‘Like’ option…has become the most addictive single click in social networking, an easily obtained ray of online sunshine…It says, ‘I’ve paid attention to the big and small news you’ve chosen to share today, and I care about it.’ How rarely in the day-to-day of real life does one have the chance to say, ‘Good for you!’ or when granted it, does one take it?”
Talk About It:
You don’t have to have a Facebook account to pass on a compliment or show someone you’re interested in his or her day. How often do you let your friends or family know when they do something good or interesting? Do you make it a point to compliment people? Make folks feel good about themselves?
Has someone paid you a compliment in the last month? For what? How did it make you feel? Have you given someone else a “thumbs up” for something recently?
How important do you think it is generally for people to feel appreciated? If people feel good about themselves, do they tend to treat other people better, too? Do you believe people undervalue the importance of being nice?
What the Bible Says:
“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves” (
“An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up” (
“A man finds joy in giving an apt reply—and how good is a timely word” (
“The craftsman encourages the goldsmith, and he who smoothes with the hammer spurs on him who strikes the anvil. He says of the welding, ‘It is good'” (
