We tend to ignore or forget the fact that value in social media is a zero-sum equation. We focus on the importance of adding value, but we don't adequately acknowledge the importance of not subtracting value. A better way to look at the relationship between social interaction and value transactions is with the following social media law of value:
In social media, if you aren't adding value, you are subtracting value.
It might seem obvious and simple, but the purpose of this law is to balance out our view on value to include subtraction, not just addition. If you aren't adding to my life (as understood in a very general way), you are subtracting from it. Social media functions within an attention-based economy. If the return of relevance/interest/knowledge/entertainment, etc is less than my investment of attention that I spent to read your tweet or click on your link, your tweet or link subtracted value from my life.
It's much easier to believe there is no risk in our social media activities. But, of course, with any opportunity for gain, there is a risk of loss. The social media law of value is one way to accurately describe and explain this reality.