Firko, you probably don't want to hear it
but I agree with you wholeheartedly.
I dabbled a little with FaceBook and My Space thinking it was a way to keep up with my children and nieces and nephews etc. I concluded it was too much like hard work and too trivial - minimal return for effort.
I use emails and CC's to keep up with my family and extended family and use it specifically as required - works well, both to and from. And I use forums. That is more than enough time spent for me.
Basically there is just too much information out there - I've got to manage it and make choices.