I've noticed the same thing. LJ used to be a thriving community where it was easy to connect with new people, but over the past few years it's kinda dissipated in that respect. I used to check it out a few times a day, now I check it out once, maybe twice a week.
I partially blame Facebook and Twitter. But, why blame? There will always be something new. However, the difference with those two is that with Facebook you mostly follow family and friends. With Twitter, you mindlessly follow celebrities. The former awesomeness of LJ just doesn't really exist in those places.
I was discussing this with someone a few days ago, and part of the conclusion that was reached is that it was the removal of the invite system that acted as the turning point. Until then, there was at least some vague social connection present, but once that was removed it became just another blogging system. I can understand the reasons for doing so - the ability to make LJ an occupation that can be lived off, as opposed to a time-consuming side project that gives little return, would tempt anyone in that position. On a rational level, I shouldn't complain that what I have been getting for free is now different, and it is better to miss something than regard it with no feeling at all
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I partially blame Facebook and Twitter. But, why blame? There will always be something new. However, the difference with those two is that with Facebook you mostly follow family and friends. With Twitter, you mindlessly follow celebrities. The former awesomeness of LJ just doesn't really exist in those places.
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