connect humans as machines! difficult to realize ... thus we use by virtual networks to share and exchange as ResearchGate allows it ... existential need to find the humanity which is so close and so far at the same time ... looking for a unified brain defining humanity as holistic system :)
There are many reasons, including scientific benefit as well as communication with many people and cultures and different countries, which increases the knowledge and personal culture.
I guess I am a mouse potato. However, the main reason for my presence in social media is to be in touch with the people of the world. I believe that communicating with others is educational.
I have seen many people who even cannot read nor write, they also use social media like Facebook and use messenger for voice calling,...is not this wonderful. They recognize person by their profile picture.