says LOL if so what should we call them?

I'm not sure but I think that some people still feel that you have to be terrestrial friends first. Maybe acquaintances?

i like friends, it brings a sense of closeness... in this early stage of plurk and the lack of real friends

I liken the friends on most soc nets as people you met at a conference that you think you'd hit it off with and want to get to know more.

yeah, followers are kinda creapy (esp. for women)

sorry creepy

I read that twitter's orig name had stalker in it. Yes, followers is cult like.

I like the idea of acquaintances and then friends could be reserved for some elevated relationship. Just a thought...

Friends is easier for non English folks since its a simple word vs acquaintance.