Imagined nation

The community of Facebook users is larger than the population of many countries. It is also considered a formidable political force: From Cairo to Kashmir, secessionists and democrats use it to share thoughts and organize popular protests. Yet, the curious thing about Facebook is that it lacks power. The disconnect between large numbers online and political power remains a puzzle (for now, at least). So, in Cairo, Hosni Mubarak reigns, albeit precariously, and his successor is unlikely to be a Facebook favourite.