Dr. Who's Reading Room

What Schmidt and, presumably, Google wants is stable identities embedded in social networks. And it’s true such a platform requires effort and attention. However, a “real name” policy isn’t the way to get there. Neither is insisting that people use a more conventional name or their name on a government issued ID.

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—	Zeynep Tufekci, “Don’t Suspend Scout Finch, Mr. Schmidt. It’s Wrong and It’s Bad for Business.” \| technosociology 8/30/11

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How the World Uses Social Networks

Social networks in every country might live on the same Internet, but that doesn’t prevent differences in online customs and culture from developing along geographic borders.

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Your Brain Can’t Handle Your Facebook Friends »

I’m a few over my limit. I’m afraid some of you will have to go. (Just kidding.) How about you?

Ever heard of Dunbar’s Number? According to British anthropologist Robin Dunbar, it’s the cognitive limit to the number of people you can be friends with. The number is 150, meaning your brain can only handle that much friends, and – shockingly enough – it also applies to Facebook.