Creepy or Useful? The Facebook "Ask" button.

The "Ask" Button

I have seen several articles addressing the implementation of an "Ask" button on Facebook.  This button allows friends to click a button labeled "Ask" next to any of their friends' personal information.  This prompts a box to be opened that will allow a short message in order to ask a question about the personal information.  There is considerable dissatisfaction with the button because of privacy concerns.  Learn more about this button here. 

Is it really doing harm?

The main argument is that this is infringing on peoples' privacy...let's not forget that these people are on FACEBOOK.  If you have an account and expect privacy from other people I don't know why you would have an account.  Facebook is meant for people to CONNECT.  This can be on several levels, whether it be dating or friends it is all about knowing what the other person is doing.  If asking about a relationship status sparks an opening for a relationship then I would say Facebook is doing what it's meant for, connecting people.  If a person asks an inappropriate relationship question then maybe you should consider un-friending that person because they do not posses the qualities of a person you want to associate with.  As far as the hometown, work, school, etc. it may connect people who live in the same area.

The aspect people need to remember is that only people you are friends with can do this.  Thus if you don't feel comfortable enough with the people who are your Facebook friends to have this information than your privacy is already gone.  Just because Facebook gives people this option does not mean that everyone will suddenly be hit with a bunch of questions because most people will know the information either way.