The Hidden Benefits of Freecycling

Do you "Freecycle?"

The nearly decade-old network of discussion groups where people announce unwanted items they're willing to give away to anyone who wants them has almost nine million members around the world. It's become a convenient outlet for people looking to empty a spare room (or just avoid the pricey rent on a self-storage unit) and also for bargain hunters.

Intriguingly, though, a group of sociologists at the University of California has just published an interesting theory: that Freecycle generates an increased sense of community cohesion. The gist of their research is that the more the people in these "generalized exchange communities" give free stuff to each other, the more solidarity they feel with those around them.

What do you think? Is this a bunch of eggheaded nonsense, or does it ring true? Let us know down below. In the meantime, if you're not familiar with Freecycle and want to check it out, visit the Collegeville Freecycle group on Yahoo!.