The dissertation examines the potential of the Facebook website in developing the new concept of friendship. Literature is reviewed on the theories of social networking, the functions of social network sites (SNS), the reasons behind their popularity, the nature of online relationships, etc. A study is conducted using primary data obtained via an online survey among Facebook users in order to evaluate the role of the website. Conclusions are made about the motivations for contributing Facebook and about the role of this social phenomenon. Appendices are presented in a separate file.