Back in 2009, you could join, I think, two "networks" and easily search and browse within those networks, firing off messages to anyone who seemed interesting.

Back in 2009, you could join, I think, two "networks" and easily search and browse within those networks, firing off messages to anyone who seemed interesting. IIRC, that functionality disappeared a few years ago. Now FB is almost entirely a way to connect with people you already know, rather than a way to actually meet people.