1. The algorithmic feed is a pain point
Users complain that the “algorithm” pushes strangers’ posts and ads in front of the friends they actually care about.
“Over time, my timeline contained fewer and fewer posts from friends and more and more content from random strangers.” – PaulKeeble
“I still use it in this limited circumstance… the algorithm decides to fill it up with junk.” – ben_w
2. Facebook is kept alive mainly for messaging
The platform’s value for many is its Messenger, not its social graph.
“The only reason why I didn’t delete facebook is messenger, where I chat with old folks.” – keyraycheck
“It’s like having a telephone… it’s for people to be able to contact you and vice versa.” – carlosjobim
3. Targeted ads reveal privacy failures
Users feel exposed by oddly‑specific ads that seem to know their gender, interests, or even their spouse’s preferences.
“I take poorly directed targeting advertisements as a performance indicator for how well my data privacy efforts are working.” – naravara
“Why the boob surgery ads? My name is strongly gendered male.” – ben_w
4. A search for healthier alternatives
Many discuss moving to or building platforms that avoid addictive, ad‑driven feeds.
“I still think it’s worth reflecting which of the toxic patterns we want to, or don’t want to reproduce on non‑commercial networks.” – black_puppydog
“I’m glad you said so… social media should be thought of through that lens – it’s like alcohol.” – butlike
These four themes capture the core concerns and hopes voiced in the thread.