Facade vs. Substance: Why the "Like" Has Become a Lie
It is both fascinating and discouraging to see these numbers in black and white. This discrepancy perfectly demonstrates the phenomenon of the social "facade": people who reflexively like on Facebook just to be seen, without consuming the content, versus people who seek substance in silence.
Recently, I conducted an involuntary experiment on my own, comparing two different posts. The results are a slap in the face to the idea of an "online community," and I want to share the harsh reality behind the numbers with you.
The Paradox of Numbers: 11 Likes vs. 0 Likes
I published a post on Facebook with a sexualized tone—an image that immediately grabbed attention. On Facebook, it was a visual success: 11 instant likes. But do you know how many people were actually interested in the subject behind the image? Only 27 views on the blog. This ratio shows that the majority liked it and moved on without a second thought.
In contrast, I posted a real, painful story about the struggle with bureaucracy and the dignity of a son going through mourning. On Facebook, this post received 0 likes. No one wanted to be "seen" interacting with a heavy, difficult subject. However, the surprise comes from the Blogger statistics: 63 people opened the link and read the entire story.
What Does This Tell Us About Ourselves?
There are two types of audiences right now:
- The Facade Audience: Those who like on Facebook to appear active or because an image tickles their instincts, but who have no intention of reading a single line.
- The Silent, Real Audience: Those who ignore the like button but take the time to click, read, and consume a complex story to the very end.
It is incredible how we have come to measure success in likes when, in fact, real interest is hidden in discreet views. The post with 0 likes had an impact more than twice as large in reality compared to the "popular" one.
Have You Felt This On Your Own Skin?
I want to ask you, my readers: have you ever felt this frustration?
- Have you ever posted something deeply meaningful—a photo with your parents, your grandchildren, or a heartfelt story—only to be met with total silence?
- And then, have you noticed how a superficial photo, perhaps more "revealing" or trendy, gets showered with likes instantly?
How did that make you feel? It’s as if the digital world tells us that our real lives are "boring" unless they are served with a side of visual provocation.
The Conclusion of a Clear Mind
This confirms that we live in a world where knowing how to use a phone matters more than being truly educated. We are "stars" on Facebook, but we are functionally illiterate when it comes to consuming actual content.
I will continue to write on my blog, The Daily Snatches of Life, for those 60+ people who come in to read in silence, not for the 11 who give a superficial like and move on. The mirror of the soul is not seen in likes, but in the time you give to understand the person next to you.