I just posted a response to some of the things you talked about above. And the funny thing is, why did I post it in my journal and not here in comments, especially since my discussion was more about comments?

Strange, really, but you raise some very interesting points that I've been thinking about lately, driven by the need to "meet" new friends for a newish fandom.

Even though I've found some people who I want to read, I don't friend them b/c I don't see a connection forming. I'm probably isolating myself from getting to know some people, but you're right in that those with a large friends-of list may not need to search out, or even allow in, new people.

Anyway, I really enjoyed your post.