Perhaps the simplest solution to explain yet.  Connections could and should be made by the content of the comments section.  This applies to all content, and could simply be used in the background with the existing “related content” algorithm or be listed transparently to the user – “based on the comments in this post, you may also be interested in the following posts.”  This is a connection I have not seen anyone pick up on yet, and I just came to mind today as I was driving along on Interstate 81.

The really cool stuff happens when you place these associations into the appropriate analysis.  For example, trends could be determined from groups of conversations without having to use polls, as well as other useful determinations.  (Some of this goes back to my post on English as Math as the computer is better able to understand a value in what is being said.)  Sorry, Facebook.  Instead of patting yourself on the back for the addition of “5 friends posted about President Obama,”  it would be much more impressive to see, “among your friends, 37 thought he won the debate, 38 thought Mitt Romney won, and 13 thought it was even.  among your friends of friends it was 284 / 274 / 69.  That determined in the comments of the following 45 threads.”  Or perhaps, “the current hot debate on last nights game, with currently 58 expletives and counting, is at this thread.”

Oh geez, what am I saying?  Facebook can’t even include a dislike button.  (Thumbs down)