Table of Contents
Facebook: History, Structure, Technology, Societal Impact, and Challenges
Introduction
Facebook is a global social networking service currently operated under the company Meta Platforms. It allows users to create online profiles, connect with friends, share photos, videos, and status updates, and build communities or businesses through Groups and Pages. Facebook has become a central platform for modern social communication, profoundly shaping online interaction and information sharing.
History and Key Milestones
Founding: Facebook was initially launched as “TheFacebook” on February 4, 2004, by Mark Zuckerberg and his Harvard classmates. Initially limited to Harvard students, it gradually expanded to other universities and eventually worldwide.
Product and Feature Development: By 2006, Facebook opened to everyone. Key features such as News Feed, Pages, Like button, Events, Groups, and Messenger were introduced. Over time, mobile apps, Live Video, Marketplace, and Reels were added to enhance user engagement.
Company Branding Shift: In October 2021, Facebook, Inc. rebranded as Meta to focus on building the “metaverse.” The Facebook platform remains one of Meta’s flagship products.
User Base and Statistics
As of 2025, Facebook is one of the world’s largest social networking platforms, with approximately 3 billion monthly active users. Daily active users also number in the billions. Its advertising-based revenue model constitutes the majority of Meta’s income.
Business Model – How Facebook Makes Money
Facebook’s primary sources of revenue include:
Targeted Advertising: Ads are tailored based on user interests, behavior, profile information, and activity—this is the platform’s main revenue source.
Business Tools and Paid Features: Services such as Pages, Shops, Ads Manager, and Business Suite help companies engage users effectively.
Data and Analytics Services: Businesses receive insights and analytics to optimize ad targeting.
Meta has also integrated AI tools to enhance ad targeting, generating mixed responses regarding privacy and data use.
Key Controversies and Challenges
Facebook has faced major legal, ethical, and social challenges:
Data Privacy and Cambridge Analytica Scandal: In 2018, it was revealed that millions of user profiles were harvested without consent for political advertising, raising public trust and regulatory concerns.
European Regulation and GDPR Fines: Meta has faced substantial fines and legal actions over user data transfer and compliance with GDPR.
Misinformation and Political Polarization: The News Feed algorithm has been criticized for amplifying sensational or misleading content, affecting elections and public health messaging.
Mental Health and Social Impact: Studies indicate excessive use may negatively affect teenagers and young adults’ mental health, although effects vary individually.
Current Trends – AI Integration (2025–2026)
Meta has begun integrating generative AI into its platforms. AI-powered interactions may influence content recommendations and advertising. This raises debates around transparency, user control, and privacy.
Social, Economic, and Political Impact
Positive Impacts:
Easier communication and connectivity
Opportunities for small businesses via Pages and Shops
Rapid dissemination of emergency information
Community and support networks
Negative Impacts:
Privacy breaches
Spread of misinformation and hate speech
Political polarization
Potential disruption to local communication cultures
Impact in Developing Countries: Facebook improves digital inclusion, but lack of digital literacy and regulatory oversight can lead to misuse. Education, policy, and responsible platform use are crucial.
Nepal
In Nepal, Facebook is widely used for personal communication, business promotion, awareness campaigns, political messaging, and emergency information. However, unverified local news and digital security issues pose ongoing challenges.
Practical User Recommendations (Privacy & Safety)
Check Privacy Settings: Control profile visibility, post audience, app permissions, and location sharing.
Secure Login: Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) and avoid clicking suspicious links.
Fact-check Information: Verify political or health-related news before sharing.
Business Use: Maintain transparency in ads and comply with local regulations.
Parental Oversight: Monitor and guide teenagers’ use to promote digital literacy and safety.
Policy and Regulation – Future Challenges
Regulatory Pressure: Governments in the EU, US, and other regions are tightening data protection and competition regulations, requiring Meta to adapt while facing legal scrutiny.
AI Transparency: As AI plays a larger role in recommendations and advertising, transparency and user control are critical.
Conclusion
Facebook (Meta) has transformed global communication and commerce, offering unprecedented opportunities while presenting privacy, misinformation, and societal challenges. Users, governments, and Meta itself must collectively work to maximize benefits while minimizing risks. Responsible digital literacy, privacy awareness, and regulatory compliance are essential for safely navigating the platform.
